HISTORY 


OF 


AMERICAN  ODD  FELLOWSHIP 


THE    FIRST    DECADE. 


JAMES    L.  RIDGELY, 

HISTORIOGRAPHER. 


HOMO  SUM  ;  HUNjAJA 


• —  Terence. 


SIXTH      THOUSAND. 


BALTIMORE,   MD.: 

PUBLISHED  BY  JAMES  L.  RIDGELY, 

BY  AUTHORITY  OF  THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  THE  UNITED  STATES  I.  O.  O.F. 

1878 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  One  Thousand  Eight 
Hundred  and  Seventy-eight,  by 

JAMES    L.   KIDGELY, 

in  the  Office  of  the  Librarian  of  Congress,  at  Washington. 
All  rights  reserved. 


ELECTROTYPE!)  BY  PRINTED   BY 

JOHN  RYAN  &  CO.,  JOHN   L.  MURPHY, 

Baltimore.  Trenton,  N.J. 


TO  THE 


Right  Worthy  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States, 

OF  THE 

INDEPENDENT  ORDER  OF  ODD  FELLOWS, 

TO  WHICH,    MORE  THAN  TO    ANY  OTHER    HUMAN    AGENCY,    MANKIND    OWES   THE 

GRANDEST   SYSTEM    OF   SECULAR  AFFILIATED    BENEVOLENCE   OF  ANY  AGE, 

THIS   WORK  IS   AFFECTIONATELY    DEDICATED. 

HONOR,  PERPETUITY  AND   BLESSINGS 

ARE    FOREVER    DUE    TO    ITS     GRAND    AND     SUBORDINATE     ORGANIZATIONS,    FOR 
ZEAL  AND     DEVOTION     IN     THE   CAUSE;     BUT   TO   ITS   PATERNAL   GOVERN- 
MENT    AND     WISE     AND     JUDICIOUS     ADMINISTRATION,      IS     THE 
PRESENT  WONDROUS   DEVELOPMENT   TO    BE   CHIEFLY 
ASCRIBED. 

GREAT  is  THE  LEADER  OF  A  FORLORN  HOPE  TO  VICTORY;  GREAT  THE  PILOT 

WHO  STEERS  HIS  PRECIOUS  FREIGHT  SAFELY  THROUGH  THE  STORM  AND  TEMPEST; 
BUT  GREATER  THE  GENIUS  THAT  EVOKES  FROM  THE  ROUGH  MARBLE,  THE  MASTER- 
PIECE OF  ART  AND  BEAUTY — THE  DlVINE  IMAGE  IN  HUMANITY. 


PREFACE. 


This  book  goes  forth  as  the  history  of  the  first  decade  of 
American  Odd  Fellowship,  by  James  L.  Ridgely,  Grand  Corres- 
ponding and  Recording  Secretary,  and  also  Historiographer  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  I.  O.  O.  F.  As  its  prep- 
aration has  been  connected  with  several  other  names  as  State 
Historiographers,  from  whom  some  material  has  been  derived, 
the  extent  of  such  aid  will  be  fully  acknowledged.  The  particu- 
lar connection  of  Hon.  Henry  F.  Garey  with  the  publication, 
deserves  special  mention,  which  is  now  given. 

When  this  history  was  first  proposed,  such  was  the  condition 
of  my  health,  that  in  view  of  contingencies  which  were  obvious, 
I  sought  the  aid  of  competent  brothers  to  assist  me  in  the  task. 
My  first  application  was  to  Bro.  Rev.  E.  H.  Chapin  of  New 
York,  P.  G.  M.;  Reps.  Morse  of  California,  P.  G.  M.;  Harmon 
of  California,  P.  G.  M.,  and  Garey  of  Maryland,  P.  G.  M. 
These  all,  at  that  time,  declined  the  invitation,  and  I  remained 
alone  in  the  enterprise.  Afterwards,  Bro.  Garey  was  induced  to 
join  me,  and  has  been  identified  with  me  in  every  stage  of  the 
book's  progress,  until  its  conclusion.  Our  labor  has  been 
joint ;  the  original  text  has  undergone  a  revision,  in  which  each 
has  given  his  personal  consideration  to  the  topics  discussed.  In 
one  particular  I  have  taken  no  counsel  and  stand  alone.  The 
comments  on  the  men,  the  policy  and  the  principles  of  the  Order, 
express  my  individual  sentiments  long  held  on  those  subjects, 
and  in  that  sense  are  entirely  my  own.  My  part  has  been  to 
collect  and  suggest  from  the  mass  of  material  at  hand,  and  to 
designate  its  use ;  to  correct  false  history,  to  bring  together  new 
facts,  to  present  the  traits  and  labors  of  the  known  historic  men 
of  the  Order,  and  to  see  that  the  honors  should  be  appropriately 
awarded.  Occasionally,  also,  in  the  rendition  of  legislative  texts, 
to  furnish  the  proper  key  to  the  enactments  and  proceedings,  which 


PREFACE. 


otherwise  were  hidden  in  a  dry  and  barren  record.  My  colleague 
is  the  Editor  ;  I  regard  such  appellation  as  his  appropriate  title. 
He  has  also  supervised  the  style  and  language  of  the  whole  man- 
uscript, including  my  own,  although  much  has  been  inserted  lit- 
erally as  it  was  supplied  by  my  hand.  When  it  is  known  that 
Judge  Garey  has  fully  performed  his  duties  in  the  Court  of 
Common  Pleas  of  Baltimore  City,  during  the  whole  period  of  his 
connection  with  this  work,  it  will  be  acknowledged  that  he  has 
acquitted  himself  to  the  history  with  fidelity. 

Whatever  defects  or  omissions  may  exist  in  the  volume,  will 
find  an  ample  excuse  in  the  circumstances  under  which  it  was 
written.  The  whole  book  so  fully  expresses  my  personal  views 
on  all  the  subjects  treated,  that  I  accept  its  authorship  without 
reserve,  and  for  all  its  contents  assume  the  sole  responsibility. 
It  was  to  me  the  work  was  committed.  It  contains  my  cherished 
opinions  of  the  Order  and  its  principles.  So  far  as  frail  humanity 
would  permit,  it  is  a  truthful  and  complete  statement  of  the 
great  matters  of  which  it  treats.  It  is  the  depository  of  my  hopes 
and  fears,  and  of  my  love  for  the  institution  with  which  my  life 
has  been  identified  since  manhood,  and  my  name  associated  for 
nearly  half  a  century.  I  have  sought  to  portray  to  the  brethren 
the  transactions  and  the  men  of  the  first  decade,  writh  whom  I 
have  been  in  part  contemporaneous,  with  strict  impartiality.  No 
reliable  source  of  information  from  which  light  could  be  thrown 
upon  that  eventful  period  has  escaped  my  research.  The  manu- 
scripts of  Bro.  Kennedy,  P.  G.  S.,  have  been  placed  at  my  disposal. 
These  I  have  found  invaluable  as  the  proper  oracles  of  the  times. 
I  have  used  them  largely  as  the  public  property,  giving  special 
credit  only  wrhere  special  quotations  have  been  made  from 
them. 

The  researches  of  John  W.  Stokes  and  William  Ellison,  re- 
spectively, in  Pennsylvania  and  Massachusetts,  have  enabled  me 
to  present  interesting  chapters  on  those  States.  In  so  doing  I 
have  closely  followed  them  so  far  as  the  plan  of  the  work  per- 
mitted. Past  Grand  Sire  Ellison's  production  was  very  satisfac- 
tory, and  I  hereby  tender  my  sincere  thanks  to  the  Board  of  Grand 
Officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts  for  the  generous  do- 
nation of  a  copy  free  of  expense.  The  work  of  Grand  Sire  Stokes 
is  of  great  value,  and  is  exhaustive  of  the  subject.  As  far  as  was 


PREFACE.  Vii 

possible  his  plan  of  treatment  has  been  adopted.  That  veteran  Odd 
Fellow  has  been  identified  with  the  leaders  in  the  Order  for  thirty- 
five  years,  having  entered  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  in 
1843.  His  labors  include  a  full  review  of  the  Patriarchal  Branch, 
which  few  if  any  were  equally  competent  to  furnish.  Its  history 
in  Pennsylvania  is  full  of  interest.  But  as  that  branch  of  the  Order 
grew  out  of  the  degrees  called  Patriarchal,  as  the  higher  penetralia 
of  Odd  Fellowship,  we  have  been  forced  to  confine  its  history  to  the 
chapter  on  that  subject.  His  contribution  is  deserving  of  special 
mention,  and  might  well  be  published  as  a  separate  volume,  which 
would  be  very  attractive  in  that  great  jurisdiction. 

The  chapter  on  New  York  would  have  been  unsatisfactory 
but  for  the  valuable  assistance  of  P.  G.  Rep.  John  Medole,  of 
that  jurisdiction,  and  I  am  greatly  indebted  to  P.  G.  Sire 
William  W.  Moore  of  the  District  of  Columbia,  not  only  for  in- 
formation about  that  locality,  but  for  important  matter  in  the 
chapter  on  the  degrees. 

The  illustrations  have  been  obtained  at  great  labor  and 
expense,  and  but  for  the  aid  of  zealous  friends  would  be  in- 
complete. As  it  is,  we  regret  the  absence  of  several  which  it  was 
not  possible  for  us  to  obtain.  "We  gladly  return  our  acknowledg- 
ments to  Bros.  Porter  and  Ford  of  Massachusetts,  G.  Sire  Stokes  of 
Pennsylvania,  Bro.  Medole  of  New  York,  Bro.  Parker  of  New 
Jersey,  Bro.  Havenner  of  the  District  of  Columbia,  and  Bro. 
McKelvey  of  West  Virginia,  for  their  kind  attentions  in  this  de- 
partment of  the  work.  The  design  for  the  beautiful  emblematic 
•device  on  the  cover  of  the  book,  was  prepared  about  a  year  ago 
by  our  lamented  Brother  Fred.  D.  Stuart,  P.  G.  Sire,  who  mani- 
fested a  great  interest  in  this  publication.  The  work  has  gone 
to  press  under  the  supervision  of  Bro.  Theodore  A.  Ross,  Assis- 
tant Grand  Secretary,  whose  services  have  greatly  lightened  the 
labors  of  the  author  and  editor. 

And  now,  my  brethren,  having  assigned  to  all  concerned 
proper  credit  in  the  production  of  this  work,  my  task  is  about  to 
<3lose.  One  word  more  and  I  have  done.  My  days  of  prac- 
tical usefulness  are  passing  away ;  I  cannot  much  longer 
mingle  in  the  councils  of  the  Order.  Certainly  I  can  no  longer 
write  and  speak  for  the  institution  as  in  days  gone  by.  This 
doubtless  is  my  last  effort  to  serve  Odd  Fellowship.  It  is  my 


Vlll  PREFACE. 

last  tribute  to  that  great  and  good  cause — my  farewell  to  that 
loving  band  of  brothers  throughout  the  world,  who  have  so 
warmly  greeted  me  ever  since  they  learned  to  honor  and  revere 
the  Order.  In  the  hope  that  it  may  do  good  service  for  Human- 
ity and  Fraternity,  I  commit  it  to  the  Brotherhood. 

JAMES  L.  KIDGELY. 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER   I. 

PAGE 

INTRODUCTION 1 

The  Order  founded  on  principles. — Its  name. — Not  a  borrower. — Oppo- 
sition.— Origin  of  Odd  Fellowship, — Records. — The  Manchester  Unity. 
How  materials  were  obtained  for  the  history. — The  close  of  the  reign 
of  Wildey. — Plan  of  treatment. 


CHAPTER   II. 

WASHINGTON  LODGE,  No.  1 15- 

American  Odd  Fellowship. — Wildey  and  Welch. — Washington  Lodge 
instituted.— The  English  work.— Jackson  the  rival  of  Wildey.— P.  G. 
Crowder's  mission. — The  original  charter  from  Duke  of  York's  Lodge. 
John  Yates'  mission. — Finances. — The  benefit  system. — Wildey  pre- 
ferred to  Jackson. — Franklin  Lodge  to  supersede  Washington  Lodge. 
Committee  of  Past  Grands. — The  American  Degrees. — The  P.  G.'s  of 
Washington  Lodge  become  the  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S. — A  Con- 
stitution adopted.—"  The  Seven  Stars."—"  The  Three  Loggerheads." 
Stillhouse  Lane.— Matthew  Blakeley's  — May  1822.— The  Convivial 
feature. — The  Maryland  Reform. — The  Host. — Odd  Fellow's  funeral. 
Columbia  Lodge,  No.  3. — Joshua  Vausant. — Colvin's  Stone  Tavern. 
Wildey's  house. — Washington  Lodge  in  1821,  and  its  present  condition. 

CHAPTER    III. 

JOHN  BOYD 57 

His  nativity. — His  employments. — He  joins  Washington  Lodge. — Assists 
iii  establishing  the  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.— First  G.  Guardian 
and  G.  Treasurer. — One  of  the  first  to  receive  the  Golden  Rule  Degree. 
Assists  to  organize  the  G.  L.  of  the  U.  S. — Proxy  for  Pennsylvania, 
also  Delaware. — Is  known  as  The  Past  Grand. — A  lover  of  ancient 
usage.— A  Stockholder  in  the  Gay  Street  Hall. — Becomes  wealthy. 
His  devotion  to  Washington  Lodge. — Last  public  appearance. — His 
death. — The  medal  presented  to  him. 

CHAPTER    IV. 

THE  G.  LODGE  OF  MD.  AND  OF  THE  U.  S. 65 

Its  organization  and  first  proceedings. — Charter  to  Franklin  Lodge, 
No.  2.— Constitution  adopted.— Address  of  Wildey.— The  Boston  let- 


CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

ter. — Grant  of  charters  to  Mass. — Wildey's  mission. — Applications 
from  N.  York  and  Penna.— The  odes  and  tunes.— Medal  to  G.  Sec, 
Eutwisle.— Constitution  of  Nov.  1823.— Columbia  Lodge,  No  3.— 
Proxies  to  form  a  G.  L.  of  U.  S. — Financial  condition. — Report  on  for- 
mation of  a  G.  Lodge  of  U.  S.— Circular.— Death  of  G.  Sec.  Entwisle. 
Constitution  for  G.  L.  of  U.  S.— Election  for  officers  G.  Lodge  of  Md. 
A  medal  to  Wildey.— The  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.  adjourns 
sine  die. — Reflections. 


CHAPTER  V. 

JOHN  WELCH.        .        . 101 

One  of  the  trio. — His  history  before  1819. — One  of  the  original  five. — 
First  Vice  Grand. — Wildey's  counsellor. — First  G.  Sec.  of  G.  L.  of  Md. 
and  of  the  U.  S.— First  D.  G.  S.  of  the  G.  L.  U.  S.— The  Mentor  and 
Nestor  of  the  enterprise. 

CHAPTER  VI. 

THE  GRAND  LODGE  OP  MARYLAND 108 

Its  charter.— The  theory  of  its  origin.— Charles  Common,  G.  M.— Seeks 
to  become  a  corporate  body. — Anniversaries. — Assets.  —Degrees  and 
Sunday — Trials. — Political  resolutions  afterwards  expunged. — Reflec- 
tions.— The  present  flag  procured.  —Thomas  Scotchburn  G.  M. — The 
sitting  G.  M.  to  be  Rep.  to  G.  L.  U.  S.— This  law  repealed.— 
The  Patriarchal  Degree  and  a  crozicr.— The  new  signs. — Honorary 
membership. — Charges  and  degrees  in  German. — The  Germans  in  I. 
O.  O.  F. — Order  and  price  of  Degrees. — A  common  lodge-room. — Ori- 
gin of  the  Encampment  Branch. — Reports  of  Subordinates. — Visiting 
cards. — Of  a  G.  Treasurer. — Incorporation  obtained  by  Ridgely  and 
others.— Resolutions  and  presentation  to  Ridgely  and  Keyser. — "  Giv- 
ing the  Honors"  abolished. — Gratitude  Lodge,  No.  5. — An  Odd  Fel- 
lows' Hall  to  be  built. — James  L.  Ridgely  becomes  G.  Sec. — His  part 
in  obtaining  the  hall. — Description  of  Wildey's  Odd  Fellows'  Hall. 
The  new  initiates. — Prominent  names. — Difficulty  of  procuring  an 
auditorium. — Rev.  J.  V.  Bartow. — Gratitude.—  The  orators  Ridgely 
and  Walsh. — The  Press. — Conclusion. 


CHAPTER  VII. 

AUGUSTUS  MATHIOT 149 

The  Young  American. — His  birth  and  parentage. — His  characteristics. 
He  joins  the  Order.— Masonry  and  Odd  Fellowship  in  1823.— The  Ma- 
ryland reform. — Temperance  in  1823. — D.  G.  Master  and  G.  Master. 
G.  Secretary  and  G.  Treasurer  of  G.  L.  U.  S.— The  second  G.  Patri- 
arch.— His  success  in  business  and  liberality. — A  green  old  age. — His 
death  and  the  Three  Odd  Links. 


CONTENTS.  XI 

CHAPTER  VIII. 

PAGE 

RICHARD  MAULEY.      ^.         .         .         .        .        , 161 

Introduction. — Odd  Fellowship  a  field  of  labor. — His  history  and  work. 
Initiated  in  Franklin  Lodge. — Proxy  for  N.  York. — His  early  failing. 
Fifth  degree  members  and  the  spurious  lodge. — Expelled  and  returns. 
His  reformation. — G.  Master  and  G.  Patriarch. — His  career  in  the  G. 
L.  U.  S. — Venerable  Warden. — His  devotion  and  influence. — Rare 
traits  of  character. — Death  of  a  great  Odd  Fellow. — His  splendid  fune- 
ral.— His  Portrait. 

CHAPTER  IX. 

THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  THE  UNITED  STATES 173 

The  unity  of  the  family  arrangement. — Its  constitution. — A  representa- 
tive body. — Met  at  Wildey's. — Reflections. — A  question  of  jurisdic- 
tion.— The  order  of  the  degrees. — Maryland  not  to  be  its  permanent 
seat.— Arrival  of  the  Patriarchal  Degree.— Title  of  M.  W.  G.  Sire.— 
The  price  of  the  degrees. — Wildey's  report  of  his  visit  to  England. — 
English  charter  of  1820. — The  American  degrees  in  England. — Cer- 
tificates and  Cards. — New  charter  to  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania. — 
Central  Lodge,  No.  1,  and  Georgetown  Lodge,  No.  2,  of  the  District 
of  Columbia  chartered. — Old  and  new  signs. — Engrossed  thanks  to 
the  G.  Sire  for  his  visit  to  England.— The  Movable  Committee.— The 
name  and  initials  of  the  Order. — G.  Lodge  of  the  District  of  Columbia 
chartered.— The  Order  in  1829.— Augustus  Mathiot  G.  Sec.— Mass, 
declining. — Encampments. — Friendly  Union  Lodge,  No.  1,  R.  Island. 
John  Welch,  D.  G.  Sire,  retires.— Thos.  Scotchburn,  D.  G.  8.— The 
Order  in  1830.— The  G.  L.  of  Penn.  sustained.— The  Movable  Com- 
mittee a  failure — Ohio  Lodge,  No.  1,  chartered. — Personal  govern- 
ment.—Eulogy  of  the  founder. — G.  Sec.  James  L.  Ridgely  as  G.  Repre- 
sentative.—The  devotion  of  Wildey  and  Ridgely.— The  Order  in  1831. 
Funeral  ceremonies. — The  literature  of  the  Order. — The  G.  Lodge  of 
Ohio. — The  G.  Encampment  of  Maryland. — Reflections. — Wildey  En- 
campment, No.  1,  at  N.  Orleans. — G.  Lodge  of  Louisiana. — A  libel  on 
the  G.  Sire. — Boone  Lodge,  No.  1,  at  Louisville. — James  Gettys,  G. 
Sire.— The  Order  in  1832.— Meeting  of  the  G.  Lodge  in  Philadelphia. 
Resolutions  and  presentation  to  Wildey. — How  procured. — Augus- 
tus Mathiot,  G.  Treas. — Farewell  Address. — Reflections. — Review  of 
the  condition  of  the  Order  down  to  1833. — Twelve  propositions. — 
Conclusion. 

CHAPTER    X. 

JOHN  PAWSON  ENTWISLE 237 

The  intellectual  and  literary  member. — Entwisle  before  he  found  Wil- 
dey.— The  deviser  of  the  Representative  system. — His  style. — Author 
of  the  Covenant  and  Remembrance  Degrees. — The  Covenant  Degree 
vindicated  and  analyzed. — The  second  D.  G.  M. — Grand  Secretary. — 
Sudden  death. — The  presiding  genius  of  the  Order. — His  fame  as- 
sured.— Conclusion. 


Xll  CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER    XI. 

PAGE 

THE  SECRET  PRINCIPLE 250 

Introductory. — Mystery. — The  Ancient  Mysteries. — Antiquity  of  the 
secret  principle. — Doctrines  and  Rites. — The  Eleusinian  mysteries. — 
The  Egyptian  school. — China,  Japan,  Britain,  Gaul  and  Scandinavia. 
Greece. — Influence  of  the  mysteries  on  the  moderns. — Odd  Fellow- 
ship an  original. — Ancient  mysteries  in  modern  forms. — The  doc- 
trines and  rites  of  Pythagoras. — Free  Masonry. — Idolatry  and  My- 
thology.— Truth  will  finally  prevail. 

CHAPTER    XII. 

THOMAS  WILDET 275 

How  a  biography  should  be  written. — The  central  figure  of  the  Great 
TRIO.— Wildey  before  1819.— He  institutes  Washington  Lodge.— His 
version  of  the  narrative. — The  founder  of  Odd  Fellowship. — Analysis 
of  his  character. — His  boundless  devotion. — His  affecting  farewell. — 
As  travelling  missionary. — His  tour  and  his  great  success. — Wildey 
the  Patriarch. — His  later  history  and  green  old  age. — The  death  of 
the  founder. — Conclusion. 


CHAPTER   XIII. 

THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH 29ft 

The  early  English  work.— The  White,  Blue  and  Scarlet  Degrees.— 
Terms. — First  appearance  of  the  Golden  Rule  Degree. — Upon  whom 
conferred. — Ritual  of  Washington  Lodge. — The  American  Degrees. — 
The  Royal  Purple  Degree.— The  Past  Official  Degrees.— The  Grand 
Lodge  Degree. — The  Patriarchal  Degree. — An  Encampment  Lodge. 
Encampment  of  Patriarchs. — Charter  of  the  first  Encampment  of  Pa- 
triarchs.— Encampments  in  Penn. — New  York  and  Mass. — Wildey 
took  the  responsibility. — Acknowledged  by  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  —The  En- 
campment Branch. — Obtains  representation  in  the  G.  L.  of  U.  S. — 
Maryland  followed  by  the  other  States. — Great  success. — Uniformed 
Patriarchs. — G.  Encampment  Degree  and  Honorary  Degree  of  P.  C.  P. 
and  P.  H.  P. — The  lectures  or  ritual. — First  printed  American  lecture- 
book. — Successive  reprints. — The  revision  of  1835. — Revision  of  1845. 
The  unwritten  WORK. — The  secret  journal. — The  Hailing  Sign,  the 
Sign  of  Recognition  and  the  Degree  of  Rebekah. — Degree  Lodges. 
The  Traveling  Password. — Anti-Masonry  and  the  obligation. — Con- 
clusion. 


CHAPTER    XIV. 

ODD  FELLOWSHIP  IN  MASSACHUSETTS 339> 

Introduction. — John  B.  Barnes. — His  English  Medal — Plis  coadjutors. 
Mass.  Lodge  instituted. — Barnes  the  first  N.  G. — Siloam  Lodge  insti- 


CONTENTS.  Xlll 

FA  OB 

tuted. — A  letter  from  Md. — Barnes'  career. — His  departure  for  Vir- 
ginia.— Medal  and  tokens  of  respect. — His  death  and  burial. — Bro. 
Wilson's  visit  to  Baltimore. — Wildey  delivers  a  legal  charter  to  Mass. 
Lodge. — Copy  of  the  charter. — A  G.  Lodge  instituted. — History  of 
Mass.  Lodge,  No.  1. — Siloam  Lodge,  No.  2. — Its  charter. — James 
Wood. — Thomas  Barr. — George  Ashworth. — Good  Samaritan  Lodge, 
No.  3.— New  England  Lodge,  No.  4.— P.  G.  M.  Thomas  F.  Norris.— 
Simeon  Southwick. — Joseph  Lopez. — Washington  Lodge,  No.  5. — 
Adam  Lodge,  No.  6. — Merriinac  Lodge,  No.  7. — Summary  and  con- 
clusion. 

CHAPTER    XV. 

THE  GRAND  LODGE  OP  MASSACHUSETTS 369 

Action  of  the  G.  L.  U.  S.— Its  charter.— Daniel  Hersey,  first  G.  M.— First 
general  laws. — Public  procession  and  installation  at  Taunton. — Mer- 
riinac Lodge,  No.  7. — Correspondence  with  Wildey. — William  Bishop, 
G.  M. — Josiah  Robinson,  G.  M. — Visit  of  the  Movable  Committee  of 
G.  L.  U.  S.— Albert  Guild  becomes  a  member  in  1831.— His  history. 
He  restores  the  Order. — Wildey  appears. — The  circumstances  of  the 
decadence  of  the  old  G.  Lodge. — Reflections. — The  grand  success  that 
followed  the  revival. 


CHAPTER    XVI. 

ODD  FELLOWSHIP  IN  NEW  YORK 393 

Introduction. — The  Chambers  family. — They  institute  Shakespeare 
Lodge. — Morris  and  Flanagan. — Franklin,  Washington,  and  Co- 
lumbia Lodges. — Columbia  Lodge  obtains  a  legal  charter. — Contro- 
versy with  Franklin  Lodge. — Charter  of  Columbia  Lodge. — Wildey 
decides  in  favor  of  Columbia  Lodge. — Columbia  Lodge  accepts  a  char- 
ter from  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  U.  S. — Benjamin  Downing. — Charter  of 
G.  Lodge  of  New  York. — Jno.  B.  Robinson,  G.  M. — Friendship  Lodge, 
No.  2. — Hope  Lodge,  No.  3. — Strangers'  Refuge  Lodge,  No.  4. — Is 
expelled  and  becomes  a  spurious  G.  Lodge. — The  ancient  members  and 
organization. — Philanthropic  Lodge,  No.  5. — Strangers'  Refuge  Lodge 
restored. — Its  singular  history. — The  G.  Lodge  has  its  last  meeting 
in  1828.— The  change  in  1836.— New  York  and  Albany.— Interven- 
tion of  the  G.  L.  U.  S. — The  revival  of  the  Order,  and  its  new  organi- 
zation.— James  Alcock,  G.  M. — The  Order  firmly  established. — Reflec- 
tion on  the  new  birth. — John  A.  Kennedy. — Wilson  Small. 


CHAPTER    XVII. 

ODD  FELLOWSHIP  IN  PENNSYLVANIA 437 

Introduction. — Pennsylvania  Lodge  instituted. — Its  officers. — It  accepts 
a  charter  from  the  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S. — John  Upton. — Dock 
Street. — John  Pearce. — New  Jersey. — The  case  of  James  Day. — John 


XIV  CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

B.  Robinson  and  Samuel  Croucher.— Penn.  Lodge,  No.  I—The  sub- 
ordinate lodges  during  the  first  decade.— Washington  Lodge,  No.  2. 
Account  of  an  ancient  lodge  meeting.— Wayne  Lodge,  No.  3.— Morn- 
ing Star  Lodge,  No.  4.— Franklin  Lodge,  No.  5.— General  Marion 
Lodge,  No.  6.— Hermann  Lodge,  No.  7.— Rising  Sun  Lodge,  No.  8. 
Mechanics'  Lodge,  No.  9.— Philomathean  Lodge,  No.  10.— Kensing- 
ton Lodge,  No.  11.— Jeflerson  Lodge,  No.  12.— Philadelphia  Lodge, 
No.  13.— Wildey  Lodge,  No.  14.— Philanthropic  Lodge,  No.  15.— Har- 
mony Lodge,  No.  16.— Northern  Liberty  Lodge,  No.  17.— La  Fayette 
Lodge,  No.  18.— Amity  Lodge,  No.  19,  and  Miners'  Lodge,  No.  20.— 
Reflections. 


CHAPTER    XVIII. 

THE  GRAND  LODGE  OP  PENNSYLVANIA 46S 

The  first  in  national  importance. — Its  charter. — Aaron  Nichols,  G.  M. 
and  Wm.  H.  Matthews,  G.  Sec. — Benjamin  Daffin. — Aaron  Nichols. 
Thomas  Small,  G.  M.— Samuel  Pryor.— William  H.  Matthews,  G.  M. 
John  G.  Potts.— Official  report  in  1829  to  G.  L.  U.  S.,  and  corres- 
pondence of  Grand  Officers. — Report  at  the  end  of  first  decade. — An- 
niversaries.— The  new  Hall  on  South  Fifth  Street. — Its  dedication. — 
Comparison  between  Penn.  and  the  other  States. — Pennsylvania 
always  led  the  column. — Succeeded  without  Wildey's  assistance. 
The  secret  of  its  success,  and  the  men  who  have  made  it  triumphant. 
Conclusion. 

CHAPTER    XIX. 

THE  DISTRICT  OP  COLUMBIA.        .  484 

Central  Lodge,  No.  1. — Its  officers  and  first  initiates. — Georgetown 
Lodge,  No.  1 — James  Gettys  and  others  initiated — Rev.  Lorenzo  Dow. 
Petition  for  G.  Lodge  granted.— Thos.  M.  Abbett,  G.  M.— Concord 
Lodge,  No.  3. — James  Gettys,  G.  M. — Jonathan  Lodge,  No.  4. — Poca- 
hontas  Lodge. — The  decline  of  the  lodges,  and  its  cause. — A  counter 
movement. — Central  Lodge  resuscitated. — A  great  Hall  for  the  Or- 
der.— Thomas  M.  Abbett  and  James  Gettys. 

CHAPTER    XX. 

THE  THEORY  OP  THE  DEGREES.    (Illustrated).        .....      495 

The  secrets  of  Odd  Fellowship.— Its  doctrines  not  esoteric.— The  foun- 
dation of  the  I.  O.  O.  F. — Analysis  of  the  theory  of  our  secret  work. 
The  plan  for  its  exemplification. — The  rationale  of  the  degrees  of  the 
subordinate  lodge,  and  their  extension  in  the  Encampment  branch. — 
Exemplification  of  the  degrees. — The  first  degree. — The  second  de- 
gree.— The  third  degree. — The  fourth  degree. — The  fifth  degree. — 
The  end  of  the  degrees.— The  Patriarchal  Degree.— The  Golden  Rule 
Degree.— The  Royal  Purple  Degree.— The  end. 


ENGRAVINGS. 


STEEL. 

PAGE, 

I.— JAS.  L.  RIDGELY,  G.  C.  AND  R.  SECRETARY.        .        Frontispiece. 

II.— THOMAS  WILDEY,  P.  G.  SIRE 275 

III.— JOHN  A.  KENNEDY,  P.  G.  SIRE 415 

IV.— JAMES  GETTYS,  P.  G.  SIRE 49S 

WOOD. 

I.— THE  SEVEN  STARS,  BALTIMORE,  1819, 15 

II.— THE  THREE  LOGGERHEADS,  BALTIMORE,  1821.        .        .  37 

ni_pLAN  OF  WASHINGTON  LODGE-ROOM,  1819.         .        .  45 

IV.— COLVIN'S  STONE  TAVERN,  BALTIMORE,  1823.    ...  53 

V.— JOHN  BOYD .57 

VI— JOHN  WELCH .101 

VIL— WILDE  Y'S  HOUSE,  BALTIMORE,  1824 143 

VIII.— L  O.  O.  F.  HALL,  GAY  ST.,  BALTIMORE,  1831-1859.   .                .  147 

IX.— AUGUSTUS  MATHIOT 149 

X.— RICHARD  MARLEY 161 

XL— JOHN  PAAVSON  ENTWISLE 237 

XII.— WILDEY  MONUMENT,  BALTIMORE 294 

XIII.— TOMB  OF  WILDEY,  BALTIMORE 295 

XIV.— JAMES  B.  BARNES 33& 

XV.— ENGLISH  MEDAL  PRESENTED  TO  JAS.  B.  BARNES.    .  337 

XVI.— EATON'S  HOUSE,  BOSTON,  1820 339 

XVII.— AMERICAN  MEDAL  PRESENTED  TO  JAS.  B.  BARNES.  341 

XVIII.— JAMES  WOOD 355 

XIX.— THOMAS  BARR 357 

XX.— MASONIC  HALL,  ANN  ST.,  BOSTON,  1823 366 

XXL— DANIEL  HERSEY.                                                             .        •  368 


XVi  CONTENTS. 

PA«E. 

XXII.— ALBERT  GUILD. 383 

XXIII.— I.  O.  O.  F.  HALL,  WASHINGTON  ST.,  BOSTON,  1864.      .        .  387 

XXIV.— I.  O.  O.  F.  HALL,  TREMONT  ST.,  BOSTON,  1871.     .        .        .388 

XXV.— ECLIPSE  AND  SIR  HENRY,  NEW  YORK,  1823.       .        .  392 

XXVI.— BENJAMIN  DOWNING 395 

XXVII.— WILSON  SMALL 416 

XXVIII.— I.  O.  O.  F.  HALL,  GRAND  AND  CENTRE  STS.,  N.  YORK,  1849.  422 

XXIX— UPTON'S  HOTEL,  PHILADELPHIA,  1821 423 

XXX— JOHN  UPTON 425 

XXXI.— JOHN  PEARCE 436 

XXXII.— BENJAMIN  DAFFIN 431 

XXXIII.— THE  NICHOLS  MONUMENT,  CHAMBERSBURG.        .        .  4G3 

XXXIV.— THOMAS  SMALL 464 

XXXV.— SAMUEL  PRYOR 405 

XXXVI.— I.  O.  O.  F.  HALL,  SOUTH  FIFTH  ST.,  PHILADELPHIA,  1830.  477 

XXXVII.— I.  O.  O.  F.  HALL,  SIXTH  AND  CRESSON  STS.,  PHILA.,  1846.   .  478 

XXXVIIL— I.  O.  O.  F.  HALL,  BROAD  AND  SP'G  GARDEN  STS.,  PHILA.,  1852,  479 

XXXIX.— MILBURN'S  HOTEL,  WASHINGTON,  1827 480 

XL.— LIBRARY  BUILDING,  WASHINGTON,  1828.        ...  484 

XLL— THOMAS  M.  ABBETT 486 

XLIL— I.  O.  O.  F.  HALL,  WASHINGTON,  1874 490 

XLIII.— THE  ALL  SEEING  EYE .498 

XLIV.— THE  SUN  AND  SCYTHE. .499 

XL V.— THE  BOW  AND  ARROWS.    .....  500 

XL VI.— THE  ARK  OF  THE  COVENANT,  .   .   .  501 

XL VII.— THE  GLOBE  AND  LAMB.    ....  502 

XL VIII.— THE  BIBLE  AND  COFFIN. 

XLIX.— THE  H.  P.  AND  G.  OF  T 504 

L.— THE  THREE  PILLARS 505 

LI.— THE  TABLES  OF  STONE 506 

LIT.— SCRIP,  SANDALS  AND  STAFF 507 


CHAPTER    I. 


INTRODUCTION. 


But  how  the  subject-theme  may  gang,  \^J  «  Jo  t     V   ) 

Let  time  and  chance  determine  ;  ^    J 

Perhaps  it  may  turn  out  a  sang,  /  *j    ^ 

Perhaps  turn  out  a  sermon. 

—BURNS. 

"  It  is  the  first  law  of  history,  that  the  writer  should  neither 
dare  to  advance  what  is  false  nor  to  suppress  what  is  true ;  that 
he  should  relate  the  facts  with  strict  impartiality,  free  from  ill 
will  or  favor ;  that  his  narrative  should  distinguish  the  order  of 
time,  and,  wThen  necessary,  the  description  of  places ;  that  he 
should  unfold  the  motives  of  men,  and  in  his  account  of  the 
transactions  or  the  events,  interpose  his  own  judgment :  should 
relate  what  was  done,  how  it  was  done,  and  what  share  chance, 
rashness,  or  prudence  had  in  the  issue ;  that  he  should  give  the 
character  of  the  leading  men,  their  weight  and  influence,  their 
passions,  principles,  and  conduct  through  life." 

Cicero  wras  never  more  fortunate  than  when,  with  peculiar 
felicity  of  diction,  he  wrote  this  beautiful  canon  of  criticism.  Its 
conception  and  expression  would  seem  to  defy  any  later  censor 
to  add  to  or  diminish  from  its  scope  and  substance,  and  render  it 
worthy  to  appear  with  the  golden  sentences  engraved  upon  the 
memory  of  the  world.  The  rule  indicates  deep  insight,  and  is 
suitable  to  any  age  and  every  historian. 

As  our  ability  may  serve,  we  shall  consult  this  chart  in  the 
work  before  us,  and  strive  to  present  it  in  such  lights  and  with 
such  accessories  as  will  give  the  reader  a  true  version  of  the 
matter.  We  shall  be  at  pains  also  to  leave  the  common  track  of 
eulogy,  and  to  deal  wTith  impartial  measure  the  praise  and  blame 
due  to  prominent  individuals ;  omitting  no  incident  that  may 
serve  to  shed  light  upon  the  eventful  story. 

A  growing  desire  has  for  some  time  prevailed  on  the  part  of 
Odd  Fellows,  that  the  origin  of  the  Order  should  be  definitely 
1 


2  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

and  authoritatively  declared,  and  that  its  career  should  be  traced 
from  the  beginning.  Such  a  desire  is  natural,  and  ought  to  be 
gratified.  True,  in  many  instances  this  sentiment  will  be  found 
to  be  rather  the  aspiration  of  a  noble  pride,  than  the  demand  of 
the  mind  for  a  discussion  of  the  principles  with  which  we  are 
identified.  To  gratify  such  laudable  feelings  would  at  all  times 
be  a  pleasant  task;  but  such  is  not  our  only  design.  The  sine 
qua.  nQ-n^bf  ;the  Order  is  not  merely  that  we  should  indulge  in 
mlitifa^eGRgratulations.  The  primary  demand  of  the  communi- 
ties^pqn  ^ylridi  its  principles  are  designed  to  act,  and  even  of 
Odd  Fellows"  themselves,  is  indeed  of  far  greater  moment;  the 
latter  require  it  for  their  justification  and  encouragement,  and 
the  former  for  their  enlightenment  and  co-operative  favor.  These 
can  only  be  furnished  by  its  character  and  reliability  as  an  agent 
for  good  among  men.  By  the  force  of  circumstances  it  has 
already  been  grandly  advertised  ;  its  practical  public  life  and  its 
abundant  fruits  during  the  last  half  century  have  left  but  little 
to  present  which  is  really  new.  The  incidents  of  its  origin  have 
been  sown  broadcast  by  its  orators  and  its  publications,  and  by 
the  favorable  notices  of  the  press ;  many  of  these  have  been  highly 
colored,  and  some  of  them  are  entirely  apocryphal ;  yet  out  of 
this  partial  chaos,  one  may  easily  perceive  a  lofty  pedestal,  with 
glimpses  of  an  angel  hand  removing  the  veil  from  a  statue  of 
exquisite  symmetry  and  beauty.  Odd  Fellowship,  as  we  know 
it,  is  an  institution  of  modern  times,  grown  in  our  midst  and 
fashioned  by  our  hands. 

Every  brother  who  has  been  impressed  with  its  principles, 
who  has  observed  its  influence  upon  men,  or  has  been  led  to 
investigate  and  discover  its  true  character,  knows  its  origin,  the 
manner  of  its  introduction  into  this  country,— when,  where,  and 
by  whom, — and  also  its  general  career  up  to  this  day.  He  is, 
besides,  thoroughly  advised  of  the  changes  it  has  undergone 
under  American  auspices.  The  PRINCIPLES,  however,  of  the 
Order  are  of  early  date,  and  go  back  to  periods  of  time  when  men 
were  under  very  different  guidance — religious,  moral,  and  intel- 
lectual. Indeed,  the  relation  of  FRATERNITY,  instinctive  of  human- 
ity and  divinity,  was  the  birth-right  of  the  race ;  innate  as  life 
itself  is  the  sentiment  of  a  COMMON  FATHER  and  a  single  family,  that 
we  are  "of  one  blood,"  and  that  each  son  of  Adam  is  my  brother 
by  hereditary  ties.  Such  also  have  been  the  awful  and  splendid 


INTRODUCTION.  3 

announcements  of  revelation,  by  which  \ve  know  the  eternal  God 
as  the  Father  of  mankind. 

From  these  sources,  Odd  Fellowship,  as  a  system  of  fraternal 
benevolence  and  reciprocal  aid,  comprehending  not  only  its  prin- 
ciples, but  its  illustrative  and  theoretical  character,  is  derived. 
Like  many  other  institutions,  it  has  blended  beautiful  ceremonies 
with  solid  and  useful  forms ;  these,  though  harmless,  may  be 
thought  superfluous  and  of  no  efficient  value.  But  whether  in- 
dulged in  as  agreeable  ornaments,  or  relied  upon  as  necessary  and 
improving  adjuncts,  they  are  an  interesting  feature  in  the  sub- 
stantive administration  of  the  system.  This,  far  from  being  pecu- 
liar to  Odd  Fellows,  is  characteristic  of  all  delicately  organized 
association,  of  all  classes  of  people,  in  fact  of  nature  itself. 
Nothing  in  life  is  presented  in  its  simple  and  exclusively  neces- 
sary apparel ;  everything  is  decked  in  engaging  colors,  so  as  to 
combine  attractiveness  and  beauty  with  utility  and  value.  Some- 
thing, however,  may  be  necessary,  as  well  to  vindicate  it  from 
attempted  disparagement  in  other  respects,  as  to  a  proper  enlight- 
enment of  the  public  mind.  Odd  Fellowship  is  sometimes  spoken 
of  reproachfully  by  reason  of  ks  name,  on  account  of  the  seeming 
levity  it  conveys.  It  is  also  not  unfrequently  taunted  as  a  bor- 
rower, and  thus  having  nothing  in  its  organization  which  is  orig- 
inal, having  derived  everything  of  consequence  in  its  system  and 
ritual  from  other  sources,  particularly  so  from  the  Masonic  Order. 
For  some  years  during  its  earlier  career,  such  unjust  as  wrell  as 
ungenerous  imputations  obtained ;  but  for  the  most  part  it  has 
outlived  such  reproaches,  and  conquered  by  its  works  the  general 
good  favor.  Touching  the  name,  it  may  be  replied,  that  if  not 
euphonious,  that  fact  is  wholly  unimportant  so  long  as  the  object 
in  view  is  honorable  and  worthy,  even  should  such  a  name  not 
be  appropriate  as  fully  indicative  of  its  purpose.  An  objection 
on  this  point  is  equally  wanting  in  force,  for  the  reason  that  fit- 
ness in  the  mere  selection  of  a  name  is  rather  the  exception  than 
the  rule ;  taste,  caprice,  and  sometimes  even  prejudice,  generally 
determining  the  choice.  That  great  body  of  Christians  known  as 
Methodists,  was  so  nicknamed  by  its  enemies ;  and  that  valuable 
class  of  citizens  known  as  Quakers,  was  so  called  in  the  first 
instance  as  a  mark  of  scorn  and  ridicule.  Yet  those  bodies  have 
turned  the  tables  on  their  adversaries,  by  answering  to  those 
names  as  a  mark  of  the  honorable  circumstances  under  which 


4  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

they  were  first  imposed.  In  like  manner  we  may  point  to  the 
first  occasion  for  our  name  in  the  good  fellowship  that  has  ripened 
into  a  blessed  fraternity,  among  boon  companions  and  the 
fumes  of  beer  and  tobacco,  in  the  convivial  companionship  of 
homeless  tramps  and  bustling  landlords ;  but  all  these  have  been 
forgotten.  As  to  our  principles  and  ceremonies,  these  we  are 
willing  to  admit  rest  upon  a  common  basis  with  those  of  other 
secret  societies.  We  have  the  same  grand  natural  truths  and  the 
same  splendid  revelation.  History  wdth  its  magnificent  examples 
and  glorious  illustrations  is  the  common  property  of  all,  and  it  is 
only  because  we  have  dug  in  the  same  mines  that  the  precious 
jewrels  that  we  wear  are  so  very  similar.  Having  the  same  base, 
they  are  of  the  same  species.  All  avail  themselves  of  like  means 
of  inter-communication  and  recognition,  viz.  a  language  of  signs 
and  symbols ;  all  aspire  to  an  important  and  moral  agency  in 
promoting  closer  relations  among  men,  and  in  the  elevation  of 
the  race ;  but  it  by  no  means  follows  that  Odd  Fellowship 
derives  its  character  from  Masonry,  or  is  a  borrower  from  its 
ritual.  Successive  offspring  of  fraternity,  they  each  bear  the 
stamp  of  their  common  origin ;  but  as  well  say  that  brothers  by 
blood  are  copies  of  each  other  because  of  their  resemblance  to  the 
common  parent,  as  that  Odd  Fellowship  is  a  recast  of  Masonry. 
Had  signs  and  symbols,  or  the  application  of  them  to  language, 
been  originated  by  our  sister  Order,  or  had  the  Divine  Wisdom, 
in  making  fraternity  obligatory,  committed  its  administration 
to  her,  we  should  at  once  concede  the  claims  of  the  indis- 
creet advocates  who  assume  such  a  position.  But  as  the  fact  is 
far  otherwise,  we  cannot  go  further  in  deferring  to  her  claim  in 
this  regard,  than  cheerfully  to  accord  her  greater  antiquity  in  the 
inculcation  of  universal  truth,  and  of  practical  benevolence 
among  men  as  a  paramount  duty.  Odd  Fellows  recognize  Free 
Masonry  as  an  eminent,  honorable  and  useful  institution;  but 
they  also  claim  a  just  measure  of  respect  at  its  hands,  and  press 
upon  it  a  fraternal  challenge  for  supremacy  "  in  the  warfare 
which  they  wage  against  vice  in  all  its  forms,"  and  invite  it  to 
raise  the  Masonic  standard  still  higher  if  it  can.  True  to  their 
lessons,  we  have  every  reason  to  believe  that  a  corresponding 
sympathy  prevails  among  our  Masonic  brethren,  and  that 
henceforth  the  only  conflict  between  these  two  great  organiza- 
tions, enlisted  in  the  interest  of  HUMANITY,  will  be  an  earnest 


INTRODUCTION. 


rivalry  as  to  which  shall  achieve  the  noblest  record  in  so  grand  a 
cause. 

But  assailants,  who  are  alike  inimical  to  Masonry  and  to  Odd 
Fellowship,  and  to  all  other  organizations  of  men  for  benevolent 
purposes,  which  are  secret,  still  remain.  They  are  of  two 
classes ;  the  first  has  neither  character  nor  influence,  but  drives 
a  mercenary  trade  by  the  sale  of  so  called  exposures  of  the  rites 
and  ceremonies  of  these  orders.  They  may  well  be  left  to  the  degra- 
dation of  the  lot  they  have  chosen :  whether  they  have  swindled 
the  orders  or  the  public  is  a  small  matter ;  in  either  case  they  are 
swindlers,  and  from  such  no  possible  harm  can  happen  to  honorable 
men.  The  other  class  is  far  different,  and  is  armed  with  an  authority 
which  multitudes  acknowledge  and  obey.  We  refer  to  certain 
portions  of  the  Christian  Church.  So  far  as  our  order  was  con- 
cerned, this  was  originally  the  greatest  obstacle  in  the  way.  By 
reason  of  a  mistaken  view  of  our  character  and  objects,  we  found 
in  the  churches  bitter  and  uncompromising  enemies. 

But  the  Protestant  Churches,  that  live  in  the  light  of  an  intel- 
ligent public  opinion,  gradually  changed  their  ground,  and  made 
honorable  amends  for  their  original  position,  so  that  for  the  most 
part  they  now  give  us  substantial  aid  and  comfort.  We  shall  not 
waste  words  in  discussing  the  hostility  of  the  Roman.  Catholic 
Church  to  all  secular  secret  societies.  That  establishment  is  so 
exclusive  and  dictatorial  that  it  cannot  brook  apparent  oppo- 
sition, even  in  the  strife  of  good  works.  Its  system  of  central, 
arbitrary  and  exclusive  authority  cannot  admit  our  independent 
efforts ;  but  the  loss  is  not  ours,  and  confident  in  our  work  and 
destiny,  we  may  well  afford  to  pity  a  perversity  which  cuts  off 
its  members  from  one  of  the  greatest  lights  of  civilization. 
But  they  do  not  altogether  grope  in  darkness ;  to  the  contrary,  we 
discover  everywhere  arising  among  them  almost  fac-similes  of 
our  secret  societies,  aiming  to  borrow  our  forms  and  regalia, 
and  scarcely  to  be  distinguished  by  the  public  from  Masons  or 
Odd  Fellows.  Such  is  the  compliment  paid  us  by  our  worst 
traducers,  and  surely  we  can  ask  nothing  more.  Secret  benevo- 
lent societies  are  as  old  as  any  Christian  Church,  and  in  fact  owe 
their  origin  to  religion.  Such  associations  have  never  checked 
or  injured  any  form  of  goodness.  Our  order  is  composed  of  men 
of  widely  differing  religious  and  political  opinions,  and  is  acces- 
sible at  all  times  and  in  all  places  to  the  press  and  to  the  people. 


6  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Under  such  conditions  its  most  secret  recesses  are  made  bare,  and 
adequate  security  given,  were  any  necessary,  for  the  public 
safety. 

An  attack,  therefore,  upon  our  secrecy  is  of  a  piece  with  the 
rest,  an  ebullition  of  public  envy  or  of  private  spite.  Secular 
organizations  for  benevolence,  whose  mission  is  to  the  masses, 
and  wrhose  work  lies  in  "  visiting  the  sick,  succoring  the  widow, 
caring  for  the  afflicted,  burying  the  dead,  and  educating  the 
orphan,"  seriously  interfere  with  those  who  exclusively  assume 
such  duties  "  by  divine  right,"  and  yet  fail  fully  and  properly  to 
discharge  them.  The  citizen  organization  which  enters  upon  and 
discharges  these  duties  is  a  standing  menace  to  infallibility. 
"Hinc  illce  lachrymal!"  The  anathema  is  therefore  not  so 
much  aimed  at  our  secrecy  as  against  our  good  works,  and  their 
tendency  to  interfere  with  peculiar  religious  dogmas.  But  we 
turn  to  a  brighter  side  of  the  picture.  The  object  of  this  work 
is  to  present  before  the  world  one  of  those  great  organizations  as 
worthy  of  confidence  and  respect  as  an  agent  of  general  benefac- 
tion. We  feel  assured  that  by  a  diffusion  of  a  correct  knowledge 
of  its  labors  and  of  their  fruits  during  the  last  half  century,  its 
usefulness  will  not  only  be  greatly  promoted,  but  a  new  and 
powerful  impulse  will  be  supplied  to  its  increasing  growth  and 
resources.  Its  history  will  be  written  under  the  influence  of  that 
sentiment.  It  will  therefore  require  that  we  consider  and  present 
the  true  origin,  commencing  as  an  assemblage  of  workmen  in 
England  for  social  enjoyment,  and  its  transition  from  an  inchoate 
beginning  to  a  formal  association ;  its  continued  development  to 
a  system  having  defined  objects ;  thence  the  formation  of  Lodges, 
and  to  a  combination  of  these  into  an  affiliated  Order,  in  imita- 
tion no  doubt  of  kindred  existing  establishments,  the  first  being 
known  as  "  The  Ancient  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,"  begun  in  the 
city  of  London  in  the  17th  century.  We  shall  also  introduce 
all  that  is  known  of  the  colonization  of  these  principles  on 
our  shores:  that  emigrants  from  England  planted  the  seeds 
of  the  enterprise ;  that  they  were  representatives  of  the  various 
classes  or  divisions  of  the  Order  in  the  mother  country,  which, 
w^ere  wholly  independent  of  each  other,  and  differed  entirely  in 
their  systems  of  work. 

Such  dissimilar  elements  could  not,  however,  harmonize  ;  and 
thus  their  Odd  Fellowship,  although  of  a  kindred  origin,  was, 


INTRODUCTION. 


when  blended,  merely  patchwork,  made  up  of  the  ritual  of 
several  of  those  independent  societies.  But  the  American  Order 
was  fortunate.  It  will  appear  that  by  the  accidental  visit  of  a 
"brother  better  instructed,  they  were  furnished  with  later  and  more 
complete  information,  which  gave  them  unity.  So  far  as  he  could 
recognize  anything  among  them,  he  found  a  singular  mixture ; 
being  a  jumble  and  compound  of  the  Union  Order,  and  of  the 
London  or  Ancient  Order.  But  by  his  assistance  these  were 
discarded  for  the  true  and  established  work  of  the  Manchester 
Unity.  But  these  accidental  lodges  will  be  found  to  have  nothing 
in  common  with  our  Order,  which  had  its' origin  in  Thomas  Wildey 
in  1819.  From  this  point  it  will  be  traced  to  the  year  1833  inclu- 
sive, showing  its  gradual  change  of  character,  and  consequent 
adaptation  to  lofty  moral  results.  As  a  system  created  under 
American  auspices,  it  has  a  record  which  it  will  be  our  effort 
faithfully  to  portray.  Taking  it  up  in  that  aspect,  on  the  26th  of 
April,  1819,  the  day  of  its  birth  in  the  city  of  Baltimore,  by  the 
institution  of  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  we  shall  unfold  the  true 
story  of  its  first  planting. 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  has  never  recognized 
any  besides  the  four  originals,  in  their  natural  order,  namely: 
"Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  of  Maryland;  Massachusetts  Lodge, 
No.  1,  of  Massachusetts ;  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  1,  of  New  York, 
and  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  of  Pennsylvania.  The  first  of 
these  succeeded  in  bringing  the  others  into  a  common  union,  and 
in  that  way  formed  the  nucleus  of  the  present  Order. 

The  first  movers  were  of  limited  education,  and  in  a  humble 
sphere  of  life.  At  a  later  period  the  Order  acquired  men  of 
education  from  every  calling  in  life,  many  of  whom  testified  their 
love  for  the  institution  by  the  most  valuable  assistance  of  mind 
and  body  in  its  behalf;  but  these  were  restrained  by  a  proper 
delicacy  from  magnifying  their  own  achievements.  They  came 
in  generally  after  the  first  decade,  and  to  them  we  are  mainly 
indebted  for  what  may  properly  be  called  moral  and  progres- 
sive Odd  Fellowship.  They  found  it  simply  a  beneficial  so- 
ciety, presenting  nothing  attractive;  and  to  their  sagacity  and 
enlightened  judgment  is  due  the  combination  of  the  moral  and 
beneficial  features  of  the  Order,  and  the  blending  of  the  two  into 
the  one  great  idea  of  the  American  system.  To  accomplish  this, 
it  became  necessary  to  engraft  higher  aspirations  upon  the  orig- 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


inal  stock,  to  widen  the  scope  of  its  ambition,  to  amplify  the 
moral  area,  and  to  lift  it  into  a  higher  and  purer  region, 
They  could  not  speak  of  these  things  but  in  the  first  person, 
and  "  quorum  pars  fui"  was  not  their  motto.  No  records  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  had  been  preserved  for  several 
years  after  its  separation  from  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  nor 
had  the  minutes,  after  separating  from  Washington  Lodge,  been 
more  than  a  mere  skeleton,  and  that  belonged  to  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Maryland.  Nor  had  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland 
any  printed  journal  anterior  to  1831,  and  it  is  only  since  then 
that  its  proceedings  have  been  published. 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  was  in  fact  without 
any  authentic  manuscript  record  of  its  own  proceedings,  and  had 
no  printed  minutes,  except  occasional  detached  sheets,  up  to  1 827. 
The  manuscript  journals  of  the  earlier  period  of  Maryland,  Penn- 
sylvania, New  York,  and  possibly  of  Massachusetts,  now  in  exist- 
ence, have  been  since  collected  and  printed.  It  became  neces- 
sary to  supply  this  deficiency,  in  the  best  way  it  could  be  done, 
before  it  was  too  late.  Accordingly  the  G.  L.  U.  S.,  whose  atten- 
tion was  called  to  this  subject  by  the  Grand  Secretary  at  the  ses- 
sion of  1841,  directed  that  officer  to  obtain  from  P.  G.  Sire 
Wildey  all  "  documents  connected  with  the  early  history  of  the 
Order  in  his  possession ;  comprising  ancient  charters,  pamphlets, 
magazines  and  record  books  of  much  interest  and  valuable  infor- 
mation"; also,  "  to  collect  all  property  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  now 
in  possession  of  others,  and  retain  the  same  in  his  possession  until  a 
depository  may  be  provided,  or  as  this  Grand  Lodge  may  direct." 
It  was  also  further  ordered  "  that  the  Grand  Corresponding  and 
Recording  Secretary,  be  and  he  is  hereby  authorized  to  rent  a 
suitable  room  as  a  place  of  deposit  for  all  the  books,  documents 
and  property  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  and  to 
transfer  to  said  room  the  said  property,  after  he  shall  have  made 
an  inventory  thereof." 

At  the  session  of  1842,  it  was  "Resolved,  that  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  United  States  approve  of  the  printing  of  the  journal 
from  the  commencement,  in  case  any  respectable  member  of  the 
Order  shall  feel  disposed  to  do  so,  on  his  own  account ;  in  which 
event  the  Grand  Lodge  will  subscribe  for  one  hundred  copies"; 
and  also,  "that  the  Grand  Secretary  be  and  he  is  hereby  ap- 
pointed to  revise  and  cause  to  be  published  a  correct  journal  of 


INTRODUCTION.  9 

the  proceedings  of  this  Lodge  from  its  formation,  provided  the 
same  be  of  no  expense  to  the  Grand  Body."  (Journal,  502.) 

These  proceedings  were  all  in  the  interest  of  progress,  and  led 
to  the  most  valuable  results ;  while  the  necessity  for  them  indi- 
cates the  very  loose  manner  in  which  business  had  been  con- 
ducted, there  being  at  that  late  day  no  proper  office  for  the 
Grand  Secretary  nor  depository  for  the  archives,  and  in  fact  no 
record  or  account  books,  and  no  system  of  any  kind.  This 
measure  of  reform  was  indispensable  and  wise,  and  was  the  begin- 
ning of  that  system  which  has  caused  the  subsequent  proceedings 
of  the  Order  to  take  their  present  comprehensive  and  luminous 
form.  In  pursuance  thereof  the  Grand  Secretary  selected  Bro. 
John  A.  Kennedy  of  Xew  York,  then  Grand  Sire,  as  his  assistant 
in  this  interesting  business.  By  their  joint  labors  and  persistent 
research,  all  of  the  first  volume  of  the  revised  journal  was  ob- 
tained :  that  is  to  say,  the  record  of  the  organization  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States,  and  the 
detail  of  proceedings  from  that  initial  to  the  formation  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States ;  also,  the  pre-history  of  the 
several  subordinate  Lodges  out  of  which  it  was  formed,  with  the 
records  of  the  four  State  Grand  Lodges  until  their  union  with 
the  present  federal  system. 

This  invaluable  record  was  obtained  in  detached  portions,  in 
part  from  the  manuscript  journal  of  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1, 
the  minutes  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the 
United  States,  and  of  the  Grand  Lodges  of  Pennsylvania,  New 
York,  and  Massachusetts.  To  these  were  added  traditionary 
data  obtained  from  the  leading  men  who  took  part  in  the 
early  movements,  and  who  had  not  then  passed  away.  This 
material  was  woven  into  the  text  of  the  first  volume  of  the 
journal  from  1821  to  1826  inclusive,  and  furnished  the  copious 
notes  thereto  appended.  There  seems  to  have  been  an  utter 
indifference  to  the  preservation  of  the  early  records,  so  much 
so  indeed  that  many  of  the  original  rninute-books  of  the  first 
Lodges  were  permitted  to  perish.  The  result  of  all  these  in- 
quiries and  of  all  this  research  terminated  in  the  book  that  was 
reported  to  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  at  the  session  of  1814,  and  was 
adopted  by  that  body  with  great  unanimity.  (Journal,  621,  657.) 
The  effect  produced  by  its  appearance  was  such  as  the  let- 
tered reader  may  readily  perceive,  since  it  changed  chaos  into 


10  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

order  and  system.  Nor  did  its  advantages  stop  here  ;  this  example 
had  its  influence  upon  State  Grand  Bodies  and  subordinates, 
which  began  at  once  the  preservation  of  their  historic  possessions. 
With  these  scant  materials,  it  has  been  with  diffidence  that 
we  assumed  the  responsibility  involved  in  this  production.  The 
beginning  is  the  salient  point  in  all  narrative ;  when  this  is 
properly  presented,  confidence  is  inspired,  and  encouragement  is 
given  both  to  the  writer  and  the  reader.  An  obscure  or  hidden 
initial  is  a  difficulty  never  to  be  overcome,  and  never  fails  to 
embarrass  progress.  In  early  days  our  orators,  after  the  manner 
of  the  mercantile  classes,  vaunted  in  glowing  colors  the  value 
and  quality  of  their  wares.  It  was  usual  to  profess  an  antique 
origin,  so  far  back  as  the  first  dawnings  of  the  secret  principle, 
and  thence  through  all  the  ages,  the  camp  of  the  Roman 
Legion,  into  Britain  and  Gaul,  and  wherever  the  Caesars  car- 
ried their  victorious  eagles.  Learning  and  ingenuity  were  com- 
bined to  weave  fabulous  narratives  of  the  olden  time  in  proof  of 
the  mysterious  origin.  But  the  genesis  was  too  recent  to  admit  of 
such  fables,  arid  gave  positive  proof  to  the  contrary.  The  origin 
was  too  notorious  to  be  hidden  away  in  the  dreams  of  a  rash 
enthusiasm,  and  a  very  short  time  was  required  to  dissolve  such 
visions  into  their  native  ether.  The  public  mind  was  irresistibly 
attracted  to  Washington  Lodge  and  to  Wildey  as  a  starting  point, 
so  entirely  satisfactory  that  nothing  more  wras  required  on  that 
subject.  The  idea  was  latent  in  the  charter  of  1820,  which  was 
only  a  bond  of  connection  with  the  Manchester  Unity ;  but  its 
development  was  American,  and  it  did  not  need  the  formal  sepa- 
ration from  the  Unity  in  1843  to  give  it  the  character  of  a 
national  institution.  Thus  we  have  no  common  ritual,  no  affilia- 
tion, and  nothing  of  the  same  form  of  government.  In  ours  alone 
we  find  stirring  appeals  to  the  higher  nature,  and  those  moral  and 
divine  principles  which  elevate  it  almost  to  the  dignity  of  a  reli- 
gion. In  England,  relief  is  the  chief  aim,  to  which  all  else  is 
made  subordinate.  The  Manchester  Unity,  although  greatly  im- 
proved, is  chiefly  a  life  and  health  insurance  company,  with  dues 
and  benefits  graduated  by  the  scale  of  risks  taken  by  insurance 
companies.  This  is  praiseworthy,  and  should  be  imitated ;  some 
of  the  most  able  of  our  own  brethren  are  doing  good  service  in  the 
same  direction,  for  which  they  are  entitled  to  the  thanks  of  all ; 
but  neither  they  nor  we  make  it  our  chief  aim  and  highest  con- 
cern. The  contrast  is  great  and  the  difference  vital. 


INTRODUCTION.  11 

,  The  written  and  unwritten  work  that  once  united  them  has 
been  neglected  by  the  Unity,  and  but  few  traces  of  that  bond  of 
union  are  left  among  us.  The  link  that  united  us  to  a  common 
ancestry  has  been  broken  forever,  and  we  are  so  altered  and  im- 
proved as  to  have  created  a  new  system.  It  is  firmly  believed 
that  no  such  work  as  ours,  under  any  of  the  names  known  as  Odd 
Fellows,  has  ever  been  completed ;  and  to-day  it  is  the  pride  and 
oracle  of  a  body  of  men  who  may  well  rank  among  the  most 
enlightened  on  the  globe.  Thus  these  annals  go  back  more  than 
half  a  century.  The  beginning,  as  to  place,  is  sufficiently  certain ; 
some  dates  have  also  been  preserved,  and  a  number  of  interesting 
facts  of  more  or  less  importance  to  the  story.  But  for  the  most 
part,  many  of  the  facts  detailed  have  been  found  after  careful 
searching,  and  others  will  be  discovered  to  be  fragments  picked 
up  here  and  there  among  the  dust  which  has  settled  on  much 
that  we  would  fain  discover  if  we  could.  Men  of  action  make 
history,  but  seldom  preserve  the  materials  they  have  used ;  it 
follows  that  in  many  cases  it  will  be  found  difficult,  if  not  impos- 
sible, to  trace  back  some  of  the  greatest  results  of  human  conduct 
to  the  men  and  the  incidents  that  gave  them  origin.  In  our  task 
we  occupy  a  middle  ground,  so  that  while  We  must  fail  to  gratify 
curiosity  in  many  particulars,  yet  in  others,  and  those  of  the 
greatest  moment,  we  shall  be  able  to  let  in  the  light  upon  impor- 
tant starting  points,  show  the  objects  indicated,  introduce  the 
actors,  in  many  cases  exhibit  their  motives,  and  even  at 
times  offer  a  spectator  as  a  witness  to  some  crude  effort  of 
beginning.  Unfortunately  for  us,  the  early  records  of  Washing- 
ton Lodge  cannot  be  found.  They  are  reported  lost,  and  this 
compels  us  to  rely  more  or  less  on  the  traditional  statements  of 
early  members ;  the  narrowness  of  which  limit  will  appear  when 
we  consider  that  nearly  all  who  participated  in  the  first  decade 
of  the  Order  have  made  their  final  exit.  To  these  few,  but  a 
small  portion  of  the  events  of  the  early  days  of  that  period  could 
be  personally  known.  Joshua  Yansant  of  1823,  and  James  L. 
Ridgely  of  1829,  constitute  about  all  that  are  left  of  the  Order 
that  date  from  that  period.  Ridgely  did  not  come  in  until  just 
as  the  first  decade  was  closing  and  the  second  opening ;  and  as  he 
at  once  inaugurated  movements  for  reforming  abuses  and  for  im- 
proving the  condition  of  the  Order,  he  had  but  little  opportunity 
to  become  familiar  with  details  which  he  had  then  neither  the 


12 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


taste  nor  inclination  to  appreciate.  Could  he  have  foreseen  the 
importance  of  such  facts,  and  that  he  would  be  called  upon  for 
their  recital,  a  far  different  and  decidedly  more  satisfactory  pre- 
paration would  have  been  made  for  this  history.  But  what  man 
could  then  foresee  this  day,  and  anticipate  the  fame  that  would 
surround  that  decade  ?  Who  that  saw  and  mingled  in  those 
early  scenes  could  realize  their  romantic  interest :  that  they  were 
rehearsals  of  dramatic  import  to  unborn  generations ;  that  those 
obscure  names  would  become  household  words  in  many  lan- 
guages and  among  many  nations ;  that  one  of  the  band  of  early 
enthusiasts,  himself  the  earliest  and  the  most  laborious  of  them 
all,  yet  a  man  of  but  little  culture  and  of  slender  abilities, 
should,  at  his  decease,  be  mourned  by  a  great  national  institu- 
tion, and  that  a  monument  should  proudly  rise  in  grateful  mem- 
ory of  his  deeds  ?  Some  such  events  were  indeed  foreshadowed, 
and  were  the  theme  of  ardent  minds ;  but  the  probable  existence 
of  such  a  reality  was  as  unassured  as  the  verity  of  a  half  awaken- 
ing dream.  At  all  events,  no  proper  record  of  the  early  history 
attests  the  faith  of  the  founders  in  the  importance  of  their  work. 
We  are  therefore  entirely  dependent,  in  many  particulars,  on  the 
traditions — furnished  from  time  to  time  by  "Wildey,  Welch,  Jack- 
son, Boyd,  Mathiot,  Marley,  Fennell  and  others,  with  whom  many 
of  us  have  had  personal  relations.  These,  with  certain  minutes, 
narratives  and  letters  which  remain,  are  the  sources  from  which 
we  have  drawn.  Above  and  beyond  all  are  wre  indebted  to  the 
invaluable  manuscript  of  P.  G.  Sire  Kennedy,  in  which  he  has 
collected  a  large  amount  of  data.,  from  various  directions ;  without 
which,  indeed,  many  vital  points  in  this  chronicle  must  have  been 
omitted.  To  these,  that  lamented  and  distinguished  brother  lias 
added  some  personal  reminiscences  of  an  interesting  character, 
which  wrill  make  their  appearance  in  their  proper  places  in  the 
narrative. 

The  history  of  the  first  decade  cannot  be  confined  strictly 
within  that  period,  but  will  of  necessity  embrace  a  longer  time 
for  the  development  of  the  first  great  era.  The  retirement  of 
the  last  of  the  pioneers,  the  founder  of  the  Order,  will  naturally 
be  the  resting  point;  without  including  that  event  the  story 
would  be  imperfect,  and  no  just  conception  can  be  had  of  the 
reign  of  Wildey.  Around  that  act  the  whole  interest  must  center 
as  the  starting  point  of  constitutional  government.  One  goal 


INTRODUCTION.  13 

had  been  reached,  and  another  was  rising  before  the  new  men  to 
whom  was  confided  the  eventful  future.  At  that  epoch  we  can 
safely  leave  them,  and  at  the  same  time  complete  the  narrative 
which  explains  the  past  and  the  present  of  Odd  Fellowship. 
To  vindicate  the  Order  as  a  secret  society  will  also  require  a 
chapter  on  the  secret  principle,  the  history  of  the  degrees  and 
secret  work,  and  an  exemplification  and  defence  of  our  claims  as 
teachers  after  the  manner  of  the  olden  times.  In  the  rich  field 
-of  biography  we  might  gather  enough  to  fill  a  volume ;  but  our 
space  will  require  a  scanty  selection.  Boyd  must  of  'necessity 
appear ;  Marley  and  Mathiot  were  fortunate  in  coming  down  to 
our  times,  and,  as  men  of  1823,  cannot  be  neglected ;  Welch, 
Entwisle  and  Wildey,  as  the  great  TRIO,  will  be  seen  everywhere ; 
but  filial  duty  and  grateful  reverence  will  prepare  a  niche  for 
each  of  these  fraternal  heroes  in  a  separate  biography. 

We  do  not  propose  to  furnish  a  bare  recital  of  Lodge  minutes, 
or  a  mere  statement  of  the  numerical  progress  made  by  the  Order 
in  this  country.  Such  a  work  would  disappoint  just  expecta- 
tions, and  serve  no  good  purpose.  The  public  view  the  world  as 
a  theatre,  upon  which  men  and  institutions  appear  and  disappear 
in  the  drama  of  life.  To  this  stage  they  not  only  look  for  events 
and  characters  in  chronological  order,  but  also  for  the  display  of 
their  relative  nature,  quality  and  influence.  Especially  do  they 
expect  from  the  dra matis  personce  the  exhibition  of  those  attrib- 
utes wThich  display  the  passions  and  principles,  the  sentiments 
and  actions  which  have  wrought  out  the  story  and  pointed  the 
moral  of  the  play.  In  some  such  way  we  would  delineate  the 
moral  qualities  and  persistent  energy  which  have  been  displayed  ; 
exhibit  the  trials  which  have  been  conquered  through  long  years 
of  severe  struggles ;  exalt  the  heroism  and  patient  toil  which 
never  wearied,  be  the  outlook  ever  so  discouraging ;  approve  the 
wise  foresight  which  deserved  success,  and,  when  obtained,  knew 
how  to  utilize  it ;  and  especially  commemorate  the  genius  which 
grew  up  with  and  as  part  of  the  American  scheme  and  gave  it 
vitality.  The  germ  of  that  now  consummate  system  appeared  in 
1821,  since  which  it  has  attained  a  strength,  beauty  and  vitality 
which  are  the  just  admiration  of  its  votaries,  and  has  become  a 
vast  element  of  power  in  the  body  politic.  But  this  general 
statement  must  suffice.  The  book  after  all  must  speak  for  itself. 
One  fact  will  appear  in  its  pages  which  nothing  can  alter: 
WILDEY  is  the  central  figure  in  the  history. 


14:  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Recitals  and  descriptions  naturally  arising  out  of  these  sub- 
jects cannot  fail  to  relieve  the  monotony  of  lodge  proceedings 
and  financial  statements,  especially  if  personal  allusions  and 
biographical  sketches  be  superadded  to  the  manners,  habits  and 
style  of  the  people  of  the  times.  This  character  of  treatment 
will  be  adopted  whenever  the  subject  will  admit  of  such  amplifi- 
cation, without  breaking  that  continuity  which  must  be  consulted 
in  the  close  connection  of  the  narrative.  The  novelty  of  the 
attempt,  and  the  method  we  have  adopted,  will  discover  to  those 
most  capable  of  judging  of  their  merits,  the  difficulties  we  have 
met  at  every  page  we  have  written  ;•  but  having  done  our  best, 
wTe  rely  upon  our  brethren  and  the  public  for  a  generous  criticism 
of  this  first  authentic  and  official  history  of  American  Odd  Fel- 
lowship. 


CHAPTER  II. 

WASHINGTON    LODGE,  NO.  1. 

I  swear 

By  the  simplicity  of  Venus'  cloves, 
By  that  which  knitteth  souls,  and  prospers  loves, 
In  the  same  place  thou  hast  appointed  me, 
To-morrow  truly  will  I  meet  with  thee. 

— SHAKSPEABE. 

To  a  vast  brotherhood  residing  in  all  parts  of  the  United 
States,  in  the  Provinces  of  British  North  America,  in  Aus- 
tralia, South  America,  and  Germany,  this  work  will  be  wel- 
come. Their  intelligence  requires  no  apology  for  such  a  publi- 
cation ;  but,  to  the  contrary,  the  facts  and  incidents  here  recorded 
will  be  to  them  of  supreme  importance.  Indeed,  we  have  every 
reason  to  believe  that  they  ardently  desire  this  history,  to 
vindicate  their  adherence  to  Odd  Fellowship,  by  giving  them  a 
.true  and  connected  view  of  the  early  days  of  its  obscure  but  hon- 
orable origin.  The  prosperous  family  naturally  turns  to  its  an- 
cestors for  the  secret  of  the  merit  which  has  caused  its  rise,  and 
glows  with  pride  to  find  it  in  the  sturdy  industry  and  sterling 
integrity  of  the  fathers.  A  similar  sentiment  must  stir  the  heart 
of  a  fraternity  so  great  and  powerful  as  that  of  Odd  Fellows. 
We  are  irresistibly  led  to  seek  out  our  predecessors,  and  with 
filial  care  to  learn  all  we  can  of  our  venerated  founders :  to  gaze 

o 

upon  the  "rude  forefathers"  in  the  costume  and  with  the  man- 
ners and  habits  of  their  age  and  condition ;  to  view  the  rise  of 
our  Order  to  its  present  magnitude,  and  to  know  the  reasons  that 
exist  to  cause  us  to  fear  nothing  in  looking  backward  to  the  days 
of  its  obscurity.  But  the  outside  world  may  not  be  so  easily  sat- 
isfied. It  is  too  busy  in  church  and  state  to  concern  itself  with 
the  affairs  of  a  secret  society.  The  general  reader,  too  indolent 
to  discover  our  importance,  may  dismiss  this  volume  with  a  smile 
of  incredulity.  He  may  wonder  to  see  so  much  labor  expended 
on  such  seeming  trifles.  What !  a  secret  society  to  publish  its 
history  !  An  imposing  publication  to  recount  the  deeds  of  men 

(15) 


16  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

unknown  in  any  of  the  annals  of  the  day !  A  journal  of  the 
mystic  vagaries  of  wild  enthusiasts,  or  pageant-loving  men  whose 
great  feat  is  a  procession !  We  can  imagine  some  well-disposed 
reader  of  the  title  laying  down  the  book  with  a  smile  at  the  cre- 
dulity that  produced  it.  And  really  we  can  scarcely  blame  such 
an  one,  when  we  consider  the  narrow  vision  of  many  who  ought 
long  since  to  have  been  enlightened.  At  all  events,  we  invite  all 
fair  men  to  peruse  the  following  statement. 

AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  has  4  Supreme 
Grand  Lodges,  viz.  in  the  United  States,  the  German  Empire, 
Australia,  and  New  Zealand,  It  has  48  subordinate  Grand 
Lodges  in  the  United  States,  and  4  in  the  German  Empire ;  39 
Grand  Encampments  in  the  United  States  and  one  in  Australia. 
The  subordinate  lodges  are  in  the  United  States  6,734,  in  the 
German  Empire  42,  in  Australia  63,  and  in  New  Zealand  20, 
making  a  total  of  6,859.  In  the  United  States  there  are  1,818  sub- 
ordinate encampments,  in  the  German  Empire  5,  and  in  Australia 
and  New  Zealand  4,  making  in  all  1,827.  In  the  encampment 
or  superior  branch  there  are  87,896  members.  There  are  also 
870  Ilebekah  Degree  Lodges,  composed  of  members  of  the  Fifth 
degree  and  their  wives.  During  the  past  year  there  have  been 
40,578  initiations,  and  the  sum  of  $1,702,774.82  has  been  spent 
for  relief  of  members.  The  total  revenue  for  the  year  was  four 
million,  five  hundred  and  sixteen  thousand,  six  hundred  and 
sixty  dollars  and  sixty-three  cents.  From  1830  to  December 
31,  1877,  we  find  the  following  aggregates:  Initiations 
1,064,928;  members  relieved  816,882;  widowed  families  re- 
lieved 108,385 ;  members  buried  74,226 ;  the  whole  amount  of 
relief  was  sixty-nine  million,  two  hundred  and  thirty-five  thou- 
sand, nine  hundred  and  eighty-nine  dollars  and  forty-five  cents. 
What  we  have  paid  in  charity  and  for  the  education  of  orphans 
would  fill  a  volume  and  to-day  we  number  a  membership  of  465,466. 
When  we  speak  of  the  Order  in  the  United  States  we  include  the 
Provinces  of  British  North  America.  No  man  can  read  these 
figures  without  being  penetrated  with  an  intense  desire  to  know 
the  source  of  such  benefactions.  In  these  pages  will  be  found  an 
answer  to  all  questions  worthy  of  reply,  and  true  men  everywhere 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  17 

will  rejoice  at  a  spectacle  which  we  fondly  hope  is  already  blessed 
by  Heaven.  The  facts  we  shall  narrate  are  stranger  than  fiction, 
and  the  whole  subject  is  full  of  romance.  The  calendar  of  good 
men  will  have  added  to  its  pages  names  now  merely  known,  but 
ever  after  to  be  held  in  grateful  memory.  The  story  will 
appeal  to  national  pride,  for  it  is  all  American ;  the  scenes  are  in 
our  own  States  and  cities,  and  the  incidents  will  show  that  the  spirit 
of  the  country  inspired  them.  In  all  the  hundred  years  since  1776, 
no  more  glorious  fruit  of  independence  has  been  gathered  from 
the  tree  of  liberty.  In  the  year  of  jubilee,  1876,  no  voices  were 
louder  than  ours  to  rejoice,  for  none  had  greater  reason.  No 
more  costly  merchandise,  no  more  precious  gem,  no  greater  in- 
strument for  the  common  good,  no  more  beneficent  outgrowth 
of  our  civilization  appeared  at  the  Centennial.  We  carried  to 
the  exhibition  our  works  of  charity  and  benevolence,  and  on  and 
above  them  in  golden  lettering  wrote  the  proud  inscription, 
"  These  also  are  American." 

WILDEY    AND    WELCH. 

The  city  of  Baltimore,  the  great  seaport  and  entrepot  of  com- 
merce of  the  State  of  Maryland,  is  too  well  known  to  require 
description.  For  many  years  it  ranked  the  third  among  the 
cities  of  the  United  States  in  size  and  population.  In  the  year 
1818  its  inhabitants  were  less  than  sixty  thousand,  and  the  whole 
State  was  not  then  more  populous  than  the  present  city.  The  war 
with  England  had  just  closed,  in  which  the  city  had  been  attacked, 
and  Washington,  the  capital  of  the  country,  but  thirty-nine  miles 
distant,  was  captured  and  its  public  edifices  barbarously  burned. 
It  followed  that  England  was  much  hated  by  our  countrymen, 
and  nowhere  was  that  hatred  more  intense  than  in  Baltimore. 
To  be  an  Englishman  was  an  offence  to  both  pride  and  patriotism, 
and  all  such  were  considered  public  and  perfidious  enemies.  It 
was  at  this  period,  say  in  the  winter  of  1818,  that  one  Thomas 
Wildey  and  a  certain  John  Welch,  both  natives  of  England,  were 
residents  of  that  city,  and  as  fellow-countrymen  were  in  the 
habit  of  spending  much  of  their  leisure  time  together.  Wildey 
had  been  initiated  into  an  Odd  Fellows  lodge  in  the  city  of  Lon- 
don about  1804,  when  he  was  twenty-two  years  of  age,  and  sub- 
sequently took  an  active  part  in  starting  another  in  the  same  city, 


18  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

under  the  style  of  Morning  Star  Lodge,  No.  38.  Both  of  these 
were  subordinate  to  a  body  then  known  as  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
England,  but  whose  authority  was  little  recognized  outside  of 
London  city.  There  were  then,  as  there  are  now,  in  England, 
many  separate  organizations  and  independent  lodges ;  they  were 
secret,  and  the  only  bond  of  union  was  the  use  of  the  same  form 
of  what  was  denominated  "work."  Thus  a  change  of  member- 
ship from  one  to  the  other  was  provided  for,  and  such  arrange- 
ments were  made  with  the  utmost  facility.  Wildey  emigrated  to 
this  country  in  1817 ;  the  movement  which  resulted  in  the  forma- 
tion of  the  Manchester  Unity  was  so  entirely  provincial  that  no 
knowledge  of  it  had  reached  the  metropolis,  and  hence  he  left 
England  without  instruction  in  the  work  of  the  Independent 
Order.  During  his  membership  in  the  two  lodges  referred  to,  he 
had  passed  through  all  the  offices,  having  filled  the  chair  of 
Noble  Grand  as  many  as  three  times.  Welch  had  also  been  a 
member  of  a  London  lodge,  and  had  passed  the  chairs  before 
his  emigration. 

O 

A  LODGE  OF  ODD  FELLOWS  TO  BE  FORMED. 

The  two  friends,  among  other  souvenirs  of  the  old  country, 
were  loud  in  their  regrets  that  a  change  of  residence  had  deprived 
them  of  the  social  pleasure  of  a  lodge.  Soon  an  intense  desire 
arose  to  bring  about  similar  relations,  and  they  mutually  resolved, 
if  possible,  to  form  a  lodge  of  Odd  Fellows.  The  first  difficulty 
was  to  find  the  proper  number  for  the  purpose.  Private  efforts 
were  made,  and  every  means  at  hand  exhausted  to  discover  other 
brothers,  but  in  vain.  It  then  occurred  to  them  that  a  resort  to 
the  newspapers  might  prove  more  successful,  and  this  happy 
thought  resulted  in  the  following,  which  appeared  in  "  The  Bal- 
timore American"  on  the  13th  day  of  February,  1819 : 

"NOTICE  TO  ALL  ODD  FELLOWS. —  A  few  members  of  the 
Society  of  Odd  Fellows  will  be  glad  to  meet  their  brethren  for 
consultation  upon  the  subject  of  forming  a  Lodge.  The  meet- 
ing will  be  held  on  Friday  evening,  the  2d  March,  1819." 

At  the  time  and  place  designated  two  recruits  made  their 
appearance,  namely,  John  Duncan  and  John  Cheatham ;  the  lat- 
ter had  been  initiated  in  England,  and  was  proficient  in  the  old 
work;  the  former  claimed  to  have  been  initiated  in  the  city 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  19 

of  Baltimore  seventeen  years  before,  but  lie  could  give  no 
satisfactory  account  of  the  lodge  in  which  it  was  done,  neither 
its  name,  location  nor  membership,  but  he  retained  an  accurate 
knowledge  of  the  ancient  password,  sign  and  grip.  As  cards 
were  then  not  in  use  by  the  London  Order  they  proceeded  by 
mutual  examinations  to  test  one  another,  and  the  result  was 
entirely  satisfactory.  But  the  further  difficulty  arose  that  they 
were  in  all  but  four,  and  by  ancient  usage  the  number  of  five 
was  necessary  to  form  a  lodge.  The  method  they  were  adopting 
was  known  as  "  self-institution,"  and  they  might  have  been  irreg- 
ular in  their  preliminaries,  but  the  temptation  was  not  sufficient 
to  affect  their  fidelity  to  a  fundamental  regulation  of  the  Order. 
Ardently  as  they  desired  to  organize,  they  would  not  violate  the 
organic  law.  Frequent  conferences  were  held,  and  new  search 
made  for  an  additional  member,  but  without  success.  Again 
they  had  recourse  to  the  newspaper,  and  the  following  advertise- 
ment appeared  in  "  The  Baltimore  American  "  on  the  27th  day  of 
March,  1819 : 

"  NOTICE  TO  ODD  FELLOWS. — A  few  members  of  the  Society  of 
Odd  Fellows  will  be  glad  to  meet  their  brethren  for  the  purpose 
of  forming  a  Lodge,  on  Friday  evening,  2d  April,  at  the  Seven 
Stars,  Second  Street,  at  the  hour  of  seven  P.  M." 

WASHINGTON    LODGE   INSTITUTED. 

This  had  the  effect  of  bringing  to  the  surface  a  certain 
Richard  Rushworth,  another  initiate  of  the  London  body,  and 
so  the  magic  number  was  complete.  Not  a  moment  was  lost, 
but  all  the  necessary  arrangements  were  speedily  made,  so  that  on 
Monday,  April  26th.  1819,  the  five  brothers  met  at  the  sign  of 
"  The  Seven  /Stars"  on  the  south  side  of  Second  Street,  between 
Frederick  Street  and  Market  Space,  at  a  public  house  kept  by  a 
certain  William  Lupton ;  and  then  and  there,  with  all  the 
forms  of  which  they  possessed  any  knowledge,  they  solemnly 
instituted  and  opened  a  lodge,  which  they  named  "  Washington 
Lodge  of  Odd  Fellows."  Thomas  Wildey  was  installed  as  Noble 
Grand,  and  John  Welch  as  Yice  Grand ;  the  other  brothers  were 
also  given  offices,  but  it  is  not  certain  how  they  were  distributed. 
In  such  haste,  but  also  with  all  due  formality  and  dignity,  was 
the  first  stone  laid  in  the  foundation  of  American  Odd  Fellow- 


20  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

ship !  Five  Englishmen  separated  themselves  from  a  community 
in  which  they  were  already  condemned  by  a  national  prejudice. 
The  object  was  one  of  English  origin,  and  the  place  and  order  of 
their  meetings  were  calculated  to  increase  the  feeling  of  bitter- 
ness against  them :  but  they  were  in  earnest,  and  had  no  thought  of 
failure.  Efforts  were  at  once  commenced  to  add  to  their  number, 
and  within  two  or  three  weeks  they  had  increased  their  member- 
ship to  fifteen. 

THE    LODGE    OBTAINS    THE    ENGLISH    WORK. 

It  was  at  this  time  that  one  Henry  M.  Jackson  arrived  in 
Baltimore  from  Liverpool,  and  on  learning  of  the  existence  of  the 
lodge  he  was  much  surprised ;  for,  under  the  impression  that 
there  was  no  lodge  of  the  Order  in  the  United  States,  he  had 
come  provided  with  copies  of  the  charges,  then  recently  revised 
by  the  still  incipient  Manchester  Unity,  as  well  as  the  lectures 
just  issued  by  the  same  authority ;  and  he  had  fondly  hoped  to 
become  the  pioneer  of  Odd  Fellowship  in  America.  He  made 
Ms  appearance  at  the  house  of  Lupton,  and  without  loss  of  time 
secured  an  introduction  to  the  Noble  Grand.  Wildey  met  him 
with  pleasure,  and  gave  him  a  cordial  invitation  to  attend  the 
lodge  at  its  next  meeting.  At  that  meeting  he  was  well  received, 
and,  as  a  compliment,  was  invited  by  the  Noble  Grand  to  occupy 
the  chair  of  the  Warden  at  the  opening  of  the  lodge.  This  posi- 
tion enabled  him  readily  to  ascertain,  before  the  lodge  was  opened, 
that  it  was  not  being  worked  on  the  reformed  plan  adopted  by 
the  Manchester  Unity.  Of  course  he  made  the  point,  as  he  had 
no  doubt  come  there  for  that  as  well  as  for  other  purposes ;  and 
so  he  gravely  announced  to  the  astonished  Noble  Grand,  "Nobody 
in  the  lodge  is  correct"  The  consternation  that  ensued  was  fol- 
lowed by  a  recess,  when  all  were  requested  to  withdraw  from  the 
lodge-room  except  N.  G.  Wildey  and  Y.  G.  Welch  ;  Jackson  then 
produced  his  revised  documents,  and  proceeded  to  inform  the 
two  officers  of  the  manner  in  which  the  changeable  password 
was  operated  in  conjunction  with  the  old  permanent  one,  which 
was  then  in  use  by  all  divisions  of  the  Order.  It  is  presumed 
that  he  submitted  the  whole  of  the  improvements  made  by  the 
Manchester  Unity,  so  far  as  they  had  progressed,  which  consisted 
of:  1st.  The  weekly  benefit  system,  on  which  the  Unity  had 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  21 

been  formed  in  1813 ;  2d.  The  renewable  password  agreed 
upon  by  the  Unity  as  a  body,  in  1815,  at  first  ordained  to  be 
changed  monthly,  but  in  a  year  or  two  was  made  changeable 
quarterly;  3d.  The  Code  of  General  Laws,  adopted  also  in 
1815,  but  not  fully  enforced  for  several  years;  4th.  The 
"  Funeral  Fund"  system,  adopted  in  1816,  but  not  made  obliga- 
tory on  the  lodges ;  5th.  The  three  original  degrees,  with 
their  lectures,  which  were  also  adopted  in  1816 ;  6th.  The  old 
charges  as  revised  in  1817,  with  a  new  Past  Grand's  charge 
adopted  at  that  time.  This  information  having  been  imparted, 
the  other  members  of  the  lodge  were  recalled,  and  were  duly 
instructed  in  the  mode  of  work  practised  by  the  "  Independent 
Order  of  Odd  Fellows  "  of  the  Manchester  Unity.  The  first  person 
initiated  in  accordance  with  the  revised  work  was  a  brother  Ire- 
land. The  membership,  however,  did  not  seem  to  increase  more 
rapidly  by  reason  of  the  change  of  the  work.  When  Bro.  Ireland 
was  initiated,  about  the  middle  of  May,  1819,  he  was  registered 
as  Number  16  ;  and  when  Brother  John  Boyd  deposited  his  card 
in  the  lodge,  in  September,  he  was  registered  as  Number  19 ;  so 
that  but  three  additions  were  made  in  that  time,  and  Jackson 
must  have  been  one  of  the  three,  as  his  was  the  first  card  the 
lodge  had  received  on  deposit.  It  may  here  be  remarked,  that 
the  Manchester  Unity  Lodges  were  the  only  ones  that  at  that 
time  issued  cards,  and  we  have  every  reason  to  believe  that  they 
expired  only  in  case  of  emigration.  It  is  uncertain  when  or  for 
what  cause  the  lodge  ceased  to  meet  at  Lupton's.  Wildey  was 
used  to  say  that  Lupton  "  tried  to  overreach  them,"  but  gave  no 
further  explanation.  Jackson  insisted  that  he  left  the  lodge  at 
"  The  Seven  Stars  "  in  June,  when  he  went  to  Philadelphia,  and 
that  on  his  return  in  September  he  was  informed  that  no  meet- 
ings had  been  held  during  his  absence.  This  is  probably  nearly 
if  not  entirely  correct,  as  a  severe  epidemic  broke  out  in  Baltimore 
early  in  July,  1819,  which  created  great  alarm,  and  undoubtedly 
had  such  an  effect  upon  the  young  lodge  as  to  cause  a  suspension 
of  its  meetings.  That  sterling  Odd  Fellow,  John  Boyd,  concurs 
with  Jackson  in  fixing  the  time  when  the  lodge  was  removed  to 
Thomas  Woodward's  in  September,  1819.  This  testimony  en- 
ables us  to  estimate  pretty  accurately  the  progress  made  by  the 
lodge  in  the  first  five  months  of  its  existence.  To  the  first  five, 
such  accessions  had  been  made  as  to  reach  in  all  the  number  of 


22  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

nineteen ;  of  these,  Jackson  and  Boyd  were  affiliated  by  the 
deposit  of  cards,  and  the  remaining  twelve  were  most  probably 
received  by  initiation.  Under  all  the  circumstances,  the  condi- 
tion of  its  affairs  would  seem  to  be  of  no  unfavorable  augury. 

JACKSON    THE     RIVAL    OF    WILDEY. 

But  an  element  existed  among  the  members  which  had  of 
necessity  to  breed  a  spirit  of  discord.  The  ambition  of  Jackson 
to  supplant  "Wildey  in  the  esteem  of  the  brotherhood,  and  to  be 
recognized  as  the  real  founder  of  the  lodge,  kept  him  busy  in  stir- 
ring up  discontent  and  controversy.  To  break  down  Wildey,  who 
had  been  elected  for  a  second  term,  and  to  take  away  his  leader- 
ship, all  his  energies  were  directed.  He  claimed  above  all  others 
to  be  the  oracle  of  that  code  of  umvritten  law  called  "Ancient 
Usage,"  and  exerted  much  ability  in  misquoting  and  distorting 
it  into  many  shapes  to  suit  his  selfish  purposes.  What  his  argu- 
ments were  is  scarcely  worthy  of  mention ;  one  only  may  be 
inserted  as  a  specimen.  He  contended  that  by  ancient  law  a 
Noble  Grand  was  not  eligible  to  succeed  himself  in  office.  But, 
to  the  contrary,  it  was  shown  that  it  had  not  been  unusual  for 
that  officer  to  be  retained  in  his  place  for  years.  This  special 
effort  was  directed  towrards  defeating  Wildey,  should  he  become 
a  candidate  for  re-election  in  October.  On  the  other  hand,  the 
majority,  composed  of  the  friends  of  Wildey,  regarded  it  danger- 
ous to  make  any  such  change ;  and  although  the  other  party  offered 
as  a  substitute  that  most  amiable  of  men,  Vice-Grand  Welch, 
they  insisted  upon  Wildey,  and  again  elected  him  to  preside  over 
the  lodge.  This  produced  a  crisis,  the  results  of  which  will  be 
detailed  in  the  course  of  this  narrative. 

PAST    GRAND    CROWDER's    MISSION    TO    ENGLAND. 

It  was  when  this  conflict  wTas  at  its  height  that  P.  G.  Crowder 
of  Preston,  Lancashire,  England,  made  a  tour  of  the  United 
States,  and  having  reached  the  city  of  Baltimore,  he  accidentally 
obtained  information  which  led  him  to  visit  the  infant  lodge. 
His  appearance  and  sympathy  at  this  juncture  infused  new 
energy  into  the  minds  of  the  perplexed  and  desponding  brother- 
hood. New  hopes  were  inspired,  and  new  plans  were  speedily 
projected  for  future  success.  At  his  suggestion,  an  application 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  23 

was  prepared  in  suitable  form  to  be  presented  to  any  competent 
authority  of  the  Independent  Order  in  England,  for  a  Dispensa- 
tion admitting  the  lodge  into  the  regular  fellowship  of  the  Order. 
At  the  suggestion  of  some  one  present  it  was  added,  that  said 
lodge,  when  so  established,  should  be  clothed  with  power  and 
authority  to  extend  the  benefits  of  the  fraternity  "  throughout 
the  whole  land."  This  large  provision,  in  which  lay  the  germ  of 
the  American  system,  was  so  little  considered  at  the  time,  as  to 
provoke  neither  comment  nor  debate,  and  even  the  name  of  its 
mover  is  unknown.  So  little  are  we  cognizant  of  the  planting  of 
those  potent  seeds  that  have  grown  to  giant  oaks  and  waving 
forests.  On  such  apparently  trivial  accidents  do  many  of  the 
great  events  of  history  depend.  The  polished  Roman  attributed 
such  tilings  to  the  gods,  and  could  not  be  persuaded  that  they 
exist  but  by  the  aid  of  some  divinity.  Jews  and  Christians 
ascribe  them  to  that  interposition  of  the  hand  of  God  which  we 
revere  under  the  name  of  Providence.  And  certainly  we  may 
well  believe  that  some  invisible  and  divine  influence  shed  the 
light  which  was  destined  to  produce  such  an  illumination  of  the 
moral  firmament.  Brother  Crowd er  soon  afterwards  returned  to 
his  country  as  the  willing  messenger  of  the  Baltimore  brethren. 
Upon  his  arrival  at  Preston  he  presented  the  petition  to  Duke  of 
York  Lodge  at  that  place,  where  he  held  his  membership.  This 
was  in  accordance  with  the  practice  which  then  prevailed,  and 
that  lodge  promptly  granted  the  petition,  within  sixty  days  after 
the  agent  had  left  Baltimore.  This  celebrated  document  reads 
as  follows : 

THE    ORIGINAL    CHARTER   FROM    DUKE    OF    YORK'S    LODGE. 

No.  WASHINGTON  LODGE,  1. 
Plunbiis  Unum. 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  and  of  the  United  States  of  America,  of  the 
Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellowship.  To  all  whom  it  may  concern : 

This  Warrant  or  Dispensation  is  a  free  gift  from  the  Duke  of  York's  Lodge, 
of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellowship,  liolden  at  Preston,  in  the  County 
of  Lancaster,  in  Old  England,  to  a  number  of  brothers  residing  in  the  City  of 
Baltimore,  to  establish  a  Lodge  at  the  house  of  brother  Thomas  Woodward,  in 
South  Frederick  street,  in  said  City:  Hailed  by  the  title  of  "No.  1.  Washington 
Lodge,  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Man/land  and  of  the  United  States  of  America" 
That  the  said  Lodge  being  the  first  established  in  the  United  States,  hath  the 
power  to  grant  a  Warrant  or  Dispensation  to  a  number  of  brothers  of  the  Iiide- 


24  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

pendent  Order  of  Odd  Fellowship  in  any  State  of  the  Union,  for  the  encourage- 
ment and  support  of  brothers  of  the  said  Order  when  on  travel  or  otherwise. 
And  be  it  further  observed  that  the  said  Lodge  be  not  removed  from  the  house 
of  brother  Thomas  Woodward,  so  long  as  five  brothers  are  agreeable  to  hold  the 
same.  In  testimony  hereof,  we  have  subjoined  our  names  and  affixed  the  seal 
of  our  Lodge,  this  the  first  day  of  February,  one  thousand  eight  hundred  and 
twenty. 

JAMES  MANDSLEY,  G.  N.  JOHN  CHOWDER,  P.  G. 

JOHN  COTTAM,  N.  G.  W.  TOPPING,  P.  G. 

[SEAL.]  GEO.  NAILOR,  V.  G.  SAM'L  PEMBEHTON,  P.  G. 

JOHN  ECCLES,  Sec.  GEO.  WARD,  P.  G. 

JOHN  WALMSLIES,  P.  G.  GEO.  BELL,  P.  G. 

It  is  very  evident  that  this  paper  was  not  wholly  prepared  in 
England,  but  that  a  draft  was  made  in  this  country  and  accompa- 
nied the  petition.  The  several  errors  of  style  and  deficiency  in 
expression  in  portions  of  the  warrant,  were  the  result  of  defective 
education  in  all  the  parties,  and  the  lack  of  experience  by  the  Pres- 
ton Lodge  in  the  issue  of  such  instruments;  thus  they  were 
passed  over  as  immaterial,  or  it  may  be  without  detection.  But 
the  correct  and  precise  manner  in  which  the  geographical  divi- 
sions of  the  country  are  treated,  establishes  beyond  controversy 
that  it  was  not  solely  prepared  in  England,  much  less  in  an 
English  inland  village.  The  warrant  is  dated  February  1st, 
1820,  but  did  not  reach  Baltimore  until  October  of  the  same 
year,  and  on  the  23d  of  that  month  it  was  formally  accepted,  and 
the  lodge  thenceforth  regarded  itself  as  duly  constituted  and 
began  its  new  career.  So  slow  and  uncertain  was  the  transmis- 
sion of  important  papers  fifty  years  ago,  that  it  required  nearly 
nine  months  for  the  warrant  to  reach  its  destination ;  the  mails 
could  not  be  trusted,  and  the  package  express  had  not  yet  been 
started  by  Past  Grand  Hale  of  New  York.  Recourse  was  there- 
fore had  to  private  hands,  as  the  safest,  if  not  the  most  expedi- 
tious mode  of  transmission.  When  the  document  reached  the 
lodge,  nearly  a  year  had  elapsed  since  the  application  had  been 
sent  to  England. 


In  the  interim,  in  the  absence  of  intelligence  from  Bro.  Crow- 
der,  the  lodge  had  determined  to  avail  of  another  opportunity 
which  had  presented  itself.  Bro.  John  Yates,  a  member  of  the 
lodge,  undertook  to  visit  England  on  private  business,  in  the 
early  part  of  October,  1820,  and  to  him  was  committed  an 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  25 

application  for  a  Dispensation,  addressed  to  the  authorities  of  the 
Order  in  Manchester.  On  the  arrival  of  Yates  at  Liverpool  he 
managed  to  have  the  petition  forwarded  to  Manchester;  and 
according  to  the  printed  records  of  the  Manchester  Unity,  it  came 
before  a  "special  committee,"  January  7th,  1821,  and  induced 
the  following  action : 

"Resolved,  That  the  Washington  Lodge,  Baltimore,  North 
America,  be  allowed  a  dispensation  from  the  Abercrombie  Grand 
Lodge,  but  the  profits  thereof  to  go  to  the  Grand  Committee.  They 
are  likewise  allowed  Lecture  Books,  By-Laws  and  Articles ;  and 
that  John  Yates  be  written  to,  in  answer  to  the  American  letters, 
desiring  his  attendance  at  Manchester,  from  Liverpool,  or  if  he 
cannot  attend,  to  desire  that  he  will  send  an  answer  by  return, 
to  know  if  an  officer  must  go  to  meet  him  at  Liverpool  with 
them ;  and  that  if  an  officer  be  deputed,  he  be  cautioned  to  be  as 
reasonable  in  his  charges  as  possible,  and  not  at  any  rate  exceed 
one  pound  for  expenses." 

This  proceeding  is  evidence  that  the  Duke  of  York  Lodge  had 
failed  to  report  to  the  Grand  Committee  at  Manchester,  to  which 
it  was  subordinate,  that  a  warrant  had  been  granted  eleven 
months  before  to  the  "Washington  Lodge  at  Baltimore ;  it  can 
be  explained  on  no  other  hypothesis.  But  the  documents  from 
some  cause  failed  to  reach  Bro.  Yates,  arid  he  returned  to  Balti- 
more, where  he  found  the  lodge  in  full  operation  under  the  war- 
rant issued  by  the  Duke  of  York  Lodge.  It  is  presumed,  however, 
that  he  received  information  from  Bro.  Crowder,  or  some  other 
brother  at  Preston,  .that  a  free  Dispensation  had  already  been  for- 
warded to  Baltimore.  This,  in  those  days  of  poverty  and  econ- 
omy, must  have  been  good  news  indeed ;  and  Yates  was  no  doubt 
glad  to  abandon  his  application,  and  so  save  some  money  for  his 
constituents.  Thus  the  long  suspense  was  over,  and  the  lodge 
was  no  longer  in  danger  from  irregularity ;  the  tie  with  the 
mother  Order  being  lawfully  and  perfectly  formed. 

THE    FINANCES    OF   THE    LODGE. 

During  the  first  year  of  the  existence  of  Washington  Lodge 
it  had  many  troubles,  in  the  enumeration  of  which  the  first  place 
may  be  assigned  to  the  lack  of  money.  The  ancient  practice 
adopted  by  it  of  expending  the  penny  receipts  for  refreshments  for 
brothers,  was  the  chief  cause  of  weakness.  The  amounts  received 


26  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

for  initiation  and  deposit  of  cards  were  too  insignificant  to  become 
the  basis  of  a  permanent  or  available  fund ;  for  the  former  did 
not  exceed  in  any  case  one  dollar,  or  in  the  latter  twenty-five 
cents.  Meanwhile,  calls  for  assistance  increased  with  the  mem- 
bership, to  such  an  extent  as  to  keep  the  "  Warden? s  axe"  con- 
stantly on  the  move  during  the  sessions  of  the  lodge ;  and  this 
had  the  effect  of  frightening  away  many  of  the  more  prudent  or 
less  opulent  of  the  members.  A  change  of  plan  became  neces- 
sary, and  that  change  was  made  without  delay.  "  The  pence " 
were  at  once  passed  into  The  Strong  _Z?o,T,  as  the  nucleus  of  a 
treasury  for  times  of  need.  The  axe  was  sent  around  merely  for 
regular  dues,  excepting  only  when,  as  rarely  happened,  "  a  tramp" 
was  in  attendance  for  relief,  or  some  extraordinary  occasion 
required  it.  It  was  then  settled  that  each  member  and  visitor 
should  be  obliged  to  pay  his  several  bills  for  refreshments.  This 
step  to  some  extent  overcame  the  difficulty,  and  was  attended 
with  the  best  of  results.  It  may  be  proper  just  here  to  state,  that 
the  "Strong  Box"  became  a  part  of  the  lodge-room  furniture.  It 
was  a  substantial  chest,  well  strapped  and  bound  with  iron,  and 
very  heavily  constructed  :  and  as  to  size  in  solid  measure,  from 
fourteen  to  sixteen  cubic  feet ;  with  three  locks  of  different  con- 
struction, the  best  that  at  that  period  could  be  procured :  they 
were  placed  one  at  each  end  and  the  other  in  the  middle.  The 
'N.  G.,  Y.  G.  and  sitting  P.  G.  each  had  a  key  of  a  separate  lock, 
and  were  held  jointly  and  severally  responsible  for  the  safety  of 
the  contents.  By  this  precaution  all  three  were  required  to  be 
present  at  the  opening  of  the  strong  box.  The  lodge  funds  and 
the  more  valuable  of  the  books  and  papers  were  deposited  here 
for  safekeeping,  until  it  was  demonstrated,  by  two  or  three  expe- 
riences, that  as  to  this  treasury,  thieves  could  break  in  and  steal. 

THE    BENEFIT    SYSTEM. 

The  time  when  the  benefit  system  was  fully  adopted  by 
Washington  Lodge  is  difficult  to  determine.  It  does  not  seem  to 
have  been  understood  by  either  Jackson  or  Boyd  when  they 
joined  the  lodge,  and  yet  they  must  have  known  that  this  was 
the  chief  reliance  and  regular  practice  of  the  Manchester  Unity. 
But  it  was  already  in  operation,  or  now  went  into  operation  at 
the  change  just  alluded  to.  It  is  believed  that  the  pence  were 
placed  in  the  strong  box,  not  only  for  safety,  but  that  the  money 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  27 

might  be  at  hand  for  the  payment  of  the  ordinary  expenses,  and 
in  extending  relief  to  the  sick  and  disabled  brothers  of  the  lodge. 
It  was  probably  in  existence  before  N.  G.  Wildey  left  the  chair 
in  April,  1820,  as  he  was  among  those  most  ready  to  adopt  any 
idea  or  plan  that  seemed  to  favor  the  success  of  the  enterprise. 
It  may  possibly  have  been  promoted  by  the  advice  of  Brother 
Crowder  during  his  sojourn,  as  one  of  the  leading  features  in  the 
usefulness  of  the  Manchester  Unity.  If  these  surmises  are  cor- 
rect, it  may  even  have  been  partially  set  on  foot  during  the  latter 
part  of  1819 ;  and,  as  was  formerly  the  case  in  Manchester,  so  at 
first,  the  money  necessary  for  the  payment  of  benefits  might  from 
time  to  time  have  been  collected  on  the  Warden's  axe. 

WILDEY  IS  PREFERRED  TO  JACKSON. 

Another  source  of  trouble  and  anxiety  arose  from  the  jarrings 
of  internal  discord.  As  before  related,  parties  had  been  formed 
in  this  little  family ;  we  have  already  stated  that  Bro.  Jackson 
had  endeavored  to  supplant  N.  G.  Wildey  as  the  prime  mover  in 
the  affairs  of  the  Order.  The  one  was  the  author  of  the  lodge's 

o 

existence,  the  other  the  reformer  of  its  system  of  operation.  At 
the  period  of  P.  G.  Crowder's  appearance  the  contest  was  at  its 
height,  and  each  was  supported  by  zealous  and  devoted  friends. 
He  seemed  to  be  recognized  by  both  parties  as  the  umpire  of 
this  dispute,  and  tacitly  accepted  the  responsibility.  All  his 
efforts  Avere  at  first  directed  to  effect  a  compromise ;  but  they  were 
of  no  avail,  and  he  at  length  proceeded  to  examine  into  the  nature 
of  the  difficulty.  It  -was  not  only  to  fix  the  relative  merits  of  the 
work  done  by  the  brothers,  but  to  determine,  and,  as  it  resulted, 
to  confirm  finally  to  one  of  them  the  place  of  the  great  leader. 
By  singular  good  fortune  he  indicated  "Wildey  as  the  man  on 
whom  they  should  rely  for  the  safety  of  the  enterprise.  It  seems 
that  he  refused  to  consider  any  other  question  but  that  of  policy, 
and  was  irresistibly  attracted  to  Wildey  as  the  coming  man ;  and 
few  since  that  time  have  ever  ventured  to  impugn  the  wisdom  of 
his  decision.  Endorsed  by  Crowder  and  aided  by  his  friends, 
Wildey  was  re-elected  N.  G.  at  the  election  in  October. 

FRANKLIN    LODGE   TO    SUPERSEDE   WASHINGTON    LODGE. 

Jackson  and  his  most  zealous  followers  were  not  satisfied,  and 
at  once  withdrew  from  Washington  Lodge  and  formed  Franklin 


28  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Lodge,  with  a  firm  resolution  to  supersede  and  overthrow  the  for- 
mer by  the  institution  of  the  Order  in  another  form.  Jackson, 
for  himself  and  friends,  prepared  an  application  for  a  dispensa- 
tion for  Franklin  Lodge,  and  addressed  it  to  the  Grand  Commit- 
tee at  Manchester.  This  document  was  also  forwarded  by  private 
hands ;  but  the  agent  was  less  trustworthy  than  either  Crowder 
or  Yates,  for  it  did  not  reach  the  Grand  Committee  until  June, 
1821,  some  nineteen  months  after  it  had  been  sent.  The  receipt 
of  this  application  by  the  Committee  afforded  the  opportunity 
to  re-open  the  question,  then  becoming  important,  of  extending 
the  Order  to  foreign  lands  under  the  auspices  of  the  Manchester 
Unity.  In  considering  the  petition,  the  incipient  organization  at 
Manchester  began  to  assert  prerogatives  in  a  manner  that  had 
not  been  dreamed  of  by  the  Duke  of  York  Lodge,  nor  even  by 
the  same  Committee  in  the  preceding  January.  It  has  been 
believed,  and  with  good  reason,  that  the  average  Englishman  has 
but  little,  if  any,  acquaintance  with  the  geography  of  the  United 
States;  few  therefore  would  be  astonished  to  learn  from  him 
that  Pennsylvania  wTas  a  city  in  Philadelphia,  or  that  Maryland 
was  the  chief  city  in  the  State  of  Baltimore.  In  this  instance 
we  have  exhibited  the  phenomenon  of  the  then  existing  Province 
of  Maryland  in  which  was  located  the  City  of  Philadelphia. 
Whatever  may  have  induced  the  mistake,  we  are  sure  that  neither 
Baltimore  nor  Philadelphia  will  have  much  relish  for  such  a 
doubtful  compliment.  At  all  events  the  Grand  Committee  had 
in  some  manner  been  informed  that  the  application  was  from  the 
place  whose  territory  was  already  occupied,  that  a  Mother 
Lodge  was  already  in  existence  there,  and  thus  was  led  to  the 
conclusion  that  the  prayer  of  the  petitioners  could  not  be  granted. 
But  instead  of  this  announcement  by  them  in  direct  terms,  it 
was  couched  in  a  singular  resolution  then  placed  upon  their 
record : 

"  Special  Committee  held  at  the  Dog  and  Volunteer, 

SALFORD,  June  21st,  1821. 

"Resolved,  That  the  "Washington  Lodge,  Philadelphia,  be 
acknowledged  No.  1,  or  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Province  of  Mary- 
land, in  the  United  States  of  America,  and  that  they  be  informed 
that  the  usage  of  Odd  Fellowship  in  England  has  confirmed  a 
law  that  each  Grand  Lodge  shall  have  a  District  of  twelve  miles, 
but  that  should  any  Grand  Lodge  assume  an  unbecoming  prerog- 
ative, we  will  interfere,  if  just  cause  be  shown,  and  grant  further 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  29 

Dispensations  to  the  United  States,  and  that  the  legality  (under 
these  restrictions)  be  confirmed  by  the  Dispensation  granted  from 
the  Duke  of  York  Lodge,  Preston." 

Notwithstanding  the  whole  of  this  proceeding  had  relation  to 
Washington  Lodge,  and  to  none  other,  so  far  as  words  can  express 
a  purpose,  yet  notice  was  never  given  to  the  lodge  that  such  a 
vote  had  been  taken  or  resolution  passed.  But  on  the  25th  of 
June  a  copy  was  made,  and  forwarded  by  private  hands  to  Frank- 
lin Lodge,  instead  of  by  the  post,  by  means  of  which  precaution 
its  delivery  in  Baltimore  was  fortunately  secured.  The  copy  was 
signed  by  Isaac  Hardman,  C.  S.,  and  in  his  proper  handwriting 
a  note  was  appended  in  the  words  following:  "The  Franklin 
Lodge  is  desired  to  apply  to  the  Washington  for  dispensation , 
<&c."  Hardman's  communication  came  into  the  possession  of 
Franklin  Lodge  in  the  early  part  of  August,  1821,  and  as  Jack- 
son, who  had  instigated  the  brothers  to  revolt,  had  in  the  mean- 
time removed  from  the  city,  they  were  no  longer  disposed  to 
strike  for  independence  ;  they  therefore  consulted  the  interests  of 
all  concerned,  and  adopted  the  suggestion  they  had  received  from 
England. 

THE    COMMITTEE    OF    PAST    GRANDS. 

Washington  Lodge,  in  the  interval,  had  been  actively  engaged 
in  preparing  for  every  emergency.  Its  first  step  had  been  to 
organize  the  Committee  of  Past  Grands,  a  very  important  and 
necessary  appendage  to  the  Ancient  Order.  These  were  called 
in  as  the  counsellors  of  the  lodge  from  the  moment  that  it  pos- 
sessed a  sufficient  'number  who  were  qualified  for  that  purpose. 
It  is  presumed  that  several  of  those  admitted  by  card  were  already 
Past  Grands.  Both  Wildey  and  Welch  had  attained  that  rank 
in  England,  and  were  the  only  members  who  had  occupied  the 
-chair  of  Noble  Grand  until  July,  1820,  so  that  no  other  person 
•could  have  passed  that  chair  prior  to  October  of  the  same  year. 
But  the  Committee  of  Past  Grands  was  in  operation  as  early  as 
August,  1820;  from  which  it  may  be  inferred  that  at  least  two, 
namely,  Boyd  and  Couth,  must  have  entered  the  lodge  as  Past 
Grands.  It  is  also  asserted  that  Entwisle  entered  as  a  Past 
Grand,  but  this  is  denied ;  P.  G.  Sire  Kennedy  so  asserts,  but  on 
the  contrary  Washington  Lodge  claims  that  great  Odd  Fellow  as 
one  of  its  initiates ;  the  lost  minutes  alone  could  settle  the  question. 


30  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  origin,  nature  and  office  of  this  Committee  do  not  clearly 
appear;  what  is  known  may  be  briefly  stated.  Previous  to 
the. organization  of  Grand  Lodges  —  which  did  not  in  fact  exist  in 
England  properly  as  such,  but  in  a  qiiasi  manner  only,  with  the 
name  of  "District  Committees" — the  business  of  supervising  the 
Order  was  imperfectly  performed  by  "  Committees  of  Past 
Grands,"  called  together  whenever  their  services  were  supposed 
to  be  needed.  These  bodies  do  not  appear  to  have  been  in  pos- 
session of  any  established  powers,  extent  of  jurisdiction,  or  perma- 
nent officers,  and  in  convention  were  destitute  of  regulations 
other  than  such  as  were  reflected  by  the  light  of  "  ancient  usage." 
Matters  of  grievance  composed  the  principal  concerns  submitted 
to  them ;  but  their  decisions  were  in  no  case  final  or  operative, 
but  merely  advisory,  and  were  adopted  or  rejected  at  the  option 
of  the  parties  interested. 

.   THE    TWO    AMERICAN    DEGREES. 

In  the  month  last  named,  Aug.  1820,  John  Pawson  Entwisle, 
the  ornament  of  the  lodge,  took  a  step  of  equal  importance 
in  another  direction.  He  had  prepared,  and  now  submitted  to 
the  Committee  of  Past  Grands,  a  great  improvement  in  the  work 
of  the  Order.  It  consisted  of  the  original  drafts  of  the  two 
degrees,  then  and  now  designated  "  Covenant "  and  "  Remem- 
brance." The  act  was  as  bold  as  it  was  successful ;  the  amend- 
ments were  such  as  to  commend  themselves  on  the  first  perusal. 
The  Committee  did  not  hesitate  to  adopt  them  ;  and  being  brought 
into  the  lodge,  they  were  conferred  upon  the  members.  This 
great  change  was  a  declaration  of  entire  independence  in  a  mat- 
ter which  was  felt  to  involve  important  consequences.  It  was  the 
work  of  one  young  in  years,  but  in  the  estimation  of  his  brethren 
in  many  things  superior  to  them  all.  It  will  be  found  in  the 
sequel,  that  instead  of  creating  disturbance,  these  degrees,  which 
had  their  birth  in  Baltimore,  were  afterwards  gladly  received  and 
adopted  in  the  mother  country.  This  member,  who  appears  for 
the  first  time  in  the  narrative,  will  fill  but  a  small  space  upon  the 
record.  His  career  was  short,  and  his  work  was  of  a  nature  to  be 
unknown  and  unappreciated  until  the  secret  chapters  of  the  his- 
tory of  his  time  should  be  written  and  published.  The  very  few 
fragments  that  remain  of  his  composition  well  attest  his  intelli- 
gence, capacity  and  cultivation.  In  the  proper  place  Entwisle 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  31 

will  again  appear,  and  more  particularly  when  we  come  to  speak 
of  the  great  trio,  in  which  he  will  assume,  so  far  as  we  can  ensure 
it,  the  station  and  dignity  to  which  he,  above  all  others,  was  en- 
titled. 

THE     TAST     GRANDS    OF     WASHINGTON     LODGE     BECOME     THE    GRAND 
LODGE    OF   MARYLAND  AND    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 

The  time  was  approaching  when  another  step  was  made  in 
the  growing  system.  It  soon  became  plain  to  all  that  the  condi- 
tion of  the  lodge  was  anomalous.  It  was  indeed  the  whole  Order 
in  America,  but  it  was  composed  of  incongruous  and  repugnant 
elements,  and  in  its  details  of  government  was  incompetent  for 
the  task  it  had  undertaken.  It  was  formed  alike  of  the  instructed 
and  uninstructed,  and  had  no  rule  for  the  delegation  of  its  author- 
ity to  the  wise  and  able.  As  a  single  lodge  it  was  indeed  the 
superior  of  all  others,  and  the  source  of  their  authority.  But 
this  was  found,  on  examination,  of  a  nature  to  destroy  its  own 
sanctions,  by  the  manifest  injustice  which  would  result  from  its 
exercise.  The  subject  became  one  of  serious  inquiry.  As 
might  have  been  expected,  there  was  a  great  diversity  of  opinion 
among  the  membership.  On  the  one  side  were  those  who  believed 
in  "  ancient  usage  "  as  against  all  change,  and  those  who,  caring 
for  usage,  were  unwilling  to  resign  any  portion  of  their  power ; 
and  on  the  other  were  a  numerous  class  of  many  shades  of  opin- 
ion, but  who  upon  the  whole  were  inclined  to  the  doctrine  that 
the  direction  of  the  Order  should  be  assigned  to  the  ablest  and 
most  experienced  among  the  membership,  that  these  as  a  body 
should  be  entrusted  with  the  supreme  government,  and  that 
every  new  lodge  when  instituted  should  in  the  same  manner  par- 
ticipate in  the  same  power,'  by  the  selection  of  such  of  its  mem- 
bers as  were  equally  worthy  of  the  privilege.  This  question  was 
not  settled  without  a  serious  contest,  and  about  three  months  of 
active  canvassing  were  required  to  achieve  success.  The  Com- 
mittee of  Past  Grands  were,  in  the  meantime,  preparing  a  plan 
and  educating  the  minds  of  the  members  to  receive  it.  At  the 
termination  of  their  labors,  on  February  7th,  1821,  they  held  their 
latest  meeting,  when  they  adopted  a  series  of  resolutions  on  the 
subject  as  suitable  to  be  presented  for  the  action  of  the  lodge. 
This  important  paper  was  as  follows :  "Resolved,  That  it  is  expe- 
dient and  necessary  to  separate  the  legislative  from  the  operative 


32  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

portion  of  the  Order,  as  well  to  insure  system  and  uniformity  as 
a  greater  efficiency  in  conducting  the  business  of  Odd  Fellow- 
ship, Resolved,  That  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  be  invited  to 
surrender  to  this  body  of  Past  Grands  the  sole  possession  of  the 
Charter  received  by  said  Lodge  from  England." 

These  resolutions,  big  with  the  fate  of  the  enterprise,  were 
submitted  to  the  lodge  in  due  course  at  the  succeeding  meeting. 
The  meeting  was  stormy  and  the  conflict  severe ;  but  the  friends 
of  the  measure  were  in  the  majority,  and  it  was  resolved  that  the 
lodge  would  comply  with  the  request  submitted  by  the  commit- 
tee. The  final  action,  as  was  usual  with  the  leaders,  was  not 
long  delayed.  On  February  22d,  1821,  a  day  selected  as  the 
anniversary  of  the  birth  of  Washington,  the  Committee  of  Past 
Grands  assembled  at  the  lodge-room  in  Frederick  Street.  There 
were  present  the  five  heretofore  named,  with  the  addition  of  P. 
G.  William  Larkam.  The  IS".  G.  of  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1, 
then  made  his  appearance,  and  in  a  formal  manner  surrendered 
into  their  hands  the  warrant  received  by  the  lodge  from  the 
Duke  of  York  Lodge,  Preston,  England.  He  then  retired,  where- 
upon the  committee  proceeded  to  organize  as  a  Grand  Lodge, 
under  the  style  and  title  of  "  The  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and 
of  the  United  States."  The  new  body  was  then  put  in  motion 
by  the  installation  of  the  following  officers : 

Thomas  Wildey,  of  No.  1,  Grand  Master,  Coach-spring  Maker. 

John  P.  Entwisle,  of  No.  1,  Dep.  G.  M.,  Printer. 

Wm.  S.  Couth,  of  No.  1,  Grand  Warden,  Currier. 

John  Welch,  of  No.  1,  G.  Secretary,  House  and  Ship  Painter. 

John  Boyd,  of  No.  1,  G.  Guardian,  Mahogany  Sawyer. 

Wm.  Larkam,  of  No.  1,  G.  Conductor,  Cabinet  Maker. 

The  session  being  now  open,  the  Grand  Lodge  proceeded  to 
legislate,  and  the  first  business  transacted  was  the  adoption  of  the 
following:  "Resolved,  that  a  dispensation  be  presented  to  Wash- 
ington Lodge,  No.  1,  of  Maryland,  as  a  subordinate  Lodge." 
Next  in  order  was  a  scheme  of  finance  for  its  support.  This  was 
arranged  by  imposing  a  tax  of  ten  per  cent,  on  the  gross  receipts 
of  subordinate  lodges ;  the  price  to  a  subordinate  for  a  warrant, 
including  the  necessary  charges  and  lecture  books,  was  fixed  at 
thirty  dollars.  Washington  Lodge  thus  resigned  its  primary  and 
supreme  authority  into  other  hands,  and  Avas  satisfied  to  become 
the  first  of  all  those  subordinate  to  the  supreme  power  it  had 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  33 

created.  As  No.  1,  in  the  original  starting,  it  could  not  forfeit 
the  proud  claim  and  title  to  rank  above  all  the  world  as  the 
Mother  Lodge  of  American  Odd  Fellowship.  These  rest  upon 
the  conclusive  basis  of  the  possession  of  the  oldest  warrant,  or 
dispensation,  received  from  a  legal  authority  in  Europe,  and  by 
the  lineal  descent  of  Odd  Fellowship,  as  now  known  in  America, 
in  a  direct  line  from  this  lodge  and  the  lodges  that  took  their 
existence  from  it.  Franklin  Lodge  existed  in  posse,  but  was  yet 
barely  an  experiment  in  the  same  direction ;  it  followed  that  the 
first  Grand  Lodge  had  but  one  lodge  subject  to  its  jurisdiction. 
But,  as  before  related,  Franklin  Lodge,  early  in  August  following, 
received  a  communication  from  the  Grand  Committee  of  the 
Manchester  Unity,  in  which  it  was  desired  to  apply  to  the 
"Washington"  for  a  dispensation.  This  settled  the  question  of 
precedence,  and  left  the  whole  field  open  to  the  newly  organized 
Grand  Body.  No  time  was  lost,  but  at  the  earliest  opportunity 
this  band  of  brothers  made  an  application  for  a  warrant.  This 
was  gladly  met  in  the  same  spirit.  At  the  session  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  held  on  August  22,  1821,  this  proceeding  was  had: 
"  Resolved,  that  the  Grand  Lodge  receives  with  entire  satisfaction 
the  application  of  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2,  and  agrees  to  grant 
the  petition  therein  contained."  "Resolved,  that  the  Grand 
Lodge,  from  and  after  the  date  hereof,  hails  and  acknowledges 
Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2,  as  a  legal  Lodge  of  I.  O.  Fellows,  and 
that  its  dispensation  shall  be  dated  September  5th,  1821." 

It  will  be  observed  that  the  legal  existence  of  the  lodge,  prior 
to  this  action,  was  entirely  repudiated.  But  this  fact  was  con- 
ceded, and  gave  no  cause  for  complaint.  Franklin  Lodge,  No. 
2,  was  instituted  under  these  resolutions  on  the  5th  of  September 
following,  and  so  became  the  second  subordinate.  The  old  jealousy 
had  died  out,  and  the  utmost  harmony  now  subsisted  between 
them.  That  sentiment  has  ever  since  prevailed,  and  each  has 
endeavored  to  excel  the  other  in  mutual  kindness,  and  in  sup- 
porting the  dignity  and  importance  of  the  Grand  Lodge  and  its 
great  successor.  It  may  be  proper  here  to  mention,  that  at  the 
next  session,  held  on  November  22,  1821,  a  committee  reported, 
and  after  due  consideration  a  constitution  was  adopted,  being 
the  first  constitution  of  a  Grand  Lodge  known  to  the  Order. 
Heretofore  this  class  of  bodies,  by  whatever  name  distinguished, 
whether  of  Grand  Lodge  or  Grand  Committee,  had  been  gov- 
3 


34  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

erned  solely  by  "ancient  usage."  Even  the  great  power  or 
central  authority  at  Manchester  was  still  groping  its  way  by  the 
dim  light  of  uncertain  traditions,  its  lack  of  system  keeping  it 
busy  in  finding  or  manufacturing  precedents  to  meet  new  cases. 
It  was  not  until  1822  that  the  Manchester  Unity  began  to  organize 
an  "Annual  Movable  Committee"  on  a  broad  basis,  when  a  few 
very  incongruous  and  insufficient  resolutions  were  agreed  to  as  a 
general  code  for  the  government  of  the  Order  at  large  by  the 
said  committee.  But  the  infant  "  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and 
of  the  United  States"-— for  that  was  now  the  style  of  the  new 
head  of  the  Order  —  no  doubt  inspired  by  the  political  forms  of 
the  country,  boldly  adopted  a  written  constitution,  containing 
twenty  articles,  for  its  own  government  and  that  of  the  lodges 
under  its  jurisdiction.  This  as  a  whole  is  missing,  and  has  never 
been  found. 

"Washington  Lodge  continued  to  hold  its  meetings  at  the  house 
of  Woodward,  from  September,  1819,  until  January,  1822,  when 
an  unfortunate  event  made  it  necessary  for  the  house  to  be  closed. 
This  occurrence  was  of  such  a  nature  as  to  mortify  and  disgust 
the  members,  and  cause  the  weak  to  falter  or  fall  oif.  The 
effect  upon  the  public  might  have  been  greater  if  the  lodge  had 
had  any  prominence,  but  it  was  unknown,  and  the  fact  made 
little  or  no  impression ;  but  the  closing  of  the  house  turned  the 
Order  into  the  street,  and  put  it  again  in  motion  to  find  a  shelter. 
The  Grand  Lodge  had  also  held  its  sessions  at  the  same  place  until 
the  removal  of  Washington  Lodge.  The  last  important  business 
transacted  there  was  the  formal  presentation  to  Washington  and 
Franklin  Lodges  of  their  dispensations.  The  warrant  had  been 
granted  to  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  on  February  22,  1821,  but 
no  form  for  the  drafting  of  such  an  instrument  had  been  devised, 
and  the  inexperience  of  the  officers  and  membership  made 
delay  a  necessity.  The  proceedings  of  22d  of  August  preceding 
seem  to  imply  that  they  were  awaiting  instructions  from  England, 
although  three  Grand  Officers  were  directed  "to  draft  the  dis- 
pensations" for  the  two  lodges.  The  Grand  Master,  Deputy 
Grand  Master,  and  Grand  Warden,  therefore  reported  a  form, 
which  was  adopted  December  19, 1821,  and  ordered  to  be  printed. 
On  the  9th  of  January,  1822,  the  Grand  Committee  met,  filled 
up  the  dispensations,  and  caused  them  to  be  signed  and  sealed 
and  the  colors  to  be  appended.  Their  delivery  took  place  at  as 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  35 

early  a  day  as  possible,  and  was  accompanied  with  due  form  and 
ceremony. 

CHARTER   OF    WASHINGTON    LODGE,    NO.    1.,    O.    I.    O.    F. 

Order  of  Independent  Odd  Fellows. 

To  whom  it  may  concern : 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  by  authority  of  a  Grand 
Charter  granted  from  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  united  States, 
held  in  the  City  of  Baltimore,  State  of  Maryland,  doth  hereby 
grant 

This  Warrant  or  Dispensation 

To  a  number  of  brothers  of  the  Order  of  Independent  Odd 
Fellows,  residing  in  the  City  of  Baltimore,  in  the  State  of  Mary- 
land, to  establish  a  Lodge  in  any  convenient  place,  to  be  hailed 
by  the  title  of  the  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  for  the  encourage- 
ment and  support  of  brothers  of  the  said  Order  when  on  travel, 
or  otherwise.  And  the  said  Washington  Lodge  being  duly 
formed,  is  hereby  authorized  and  empowered  to  initiate  into  the 
mysteries  of  said  Order,  any  person  or  persons  duly  proposed  and 
approved  according  to  the  law  of  Odd  Fellows,  and  to  administer 
to  these  Brothers  all  the  privileges  and  benefits  arising  therefrom, 
and  to  enact  by-laws  for  the  government  of  their  lodge ;  Pro- 
vided always,  that  the  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  do  act  ac- 
cording to  the  order  and  in  conjunction  with  and  obedience  to 
the  Grand  Lodge,  adhering  to  and  supporting  the  articles,  charges, 
and  degrees  delivered  with  this  dispensation ;  and  in  default 
thereof,  this  Warrant  or  Dispensation  may  be  suspended  or  taken 
away,  at  the  discretion  of  the  Grand  Lodge ;  and  further,  the 
Grand  Lodge  (in  consideration  of  the  due  performance  of  the 
above)  do  bind  themselves  to  repair  all  damage  or  destruction 
of  the  Dispensation,  Charges  or  Degrees,  whether  by  fire  or 
other  accident ;  provided,  sufficient  proof  be  given,  and  there  is 
no  illegal  concealment  or  wilful  destruction  of  the  same.  And 
the  Grand  Lodge  will  support  the  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  in 
the  exercise  of  their  duty,  and  in  the  privileges  and  honors  of 
the  Order.  IN  WITNESS  WHEREOF,  we  have  displayed  the  colors  and 
subscribed  our  names,  and  affixed  the  seal  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States,  this  22d  day  of  February, 
Anno  Domini  one  thousand  eight  hundred  and  twenty-one. 

THOS.  WILDEY,  G.  M.  JOHN  WELCH,  G.  8. 

[SEAL]       J.  P.  ENTWISLE,  D.  G.  M.     JOHN  BOYD,  G.  G. 

WM.  S.  COATH,   G.    W.  EZEKIEL  WlLSON,  G.   61 

There  seems  to  be  some  discrepancy  as  to  the  order  of  time  as 
regards  one  of  the  signatures  appended  to  the  warrant.  Ezekiel 


36  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

Wilson  was  a  member  of  Franklin  Lodge,  and  was  not  admitted 
a  member  in  the  Grand  Lodge  until  November  22,  1821,  nine 
months  after  the  charter  was  granted.  William  Larkam  was 
present  as  Grand  Conductor  at  the  meeting  of  the  Grand  Com- 
mittee in  1822,  when  the  warrants  were  signed,  and  yet  the 
name  of  Wilson  appears  on  the  instrument  as  Grand  Conductor, 
an  office  he  had  never  held.  To  make  it  more  intricate,  the 
proceedings  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  February  22,  1822,  report 
him  as  suspended  from  the  Order  for  twelve  months  and  a  day. 
He,  however,  afterwards  attained  to  the  office  of  Grand  Master ; 
he  was  installed  as  such,  January  15,  1830. 

We  have  now  reached  a  point  at  which  we  may  stop  and 
consider  many  collateral  matters  which  belong  to  this  period. 
The  raw  material  has  now  been  woven  into  a  new  and  useful 
pattern,  which  needs  but  a  few  more  improvements  to  impress 
with  colors  of  beauty  and  utility.  In  a  word,  order  is  slowly 
emerging  from  the  confused  elements,  and  we  see  a  promise 
upon  which  men  may  repose  in  confidence,  looking  for  a  brighter 
day.  The  whole  Order  consists,  indeed,  of  but  two  subordinate 
lodges,  with  a  handful  of  members ;  and  the  Supreme  Body  of 
not  more  than  six  or  seven — about  the  number  necessary  for 
filling  the  chairs.  Here  we  leave  them  for  a  time,  toiling  on  in 
obscurity  as  an  association  of  very  ordinary  persons :  their  tone, 
indeed,  is  somewhat  lofty,  but  that  is  not  uncommon  among 
"socials"  and  those  given  to  the  cheerful  inspirations  of  the 
public-house;  there  is  much  appearance  of  form  and  dignity, 
but  one  might  well  smile,  as  spectator  of  one  solitary  private 
member  on  the  floor,  of  a  body  composed  of  six  highly  decorated 
officers,  each  in  grave  position,  and  wonder  at  the  business  which 
seems  rather  to  be  attempted  than  done  at  such  a  meeting.  But 
we  shall  meet  them  again,  and  find  that  there  was  indeed  a 
something  among  them  of  deep  import  to  the  world ;  strange 
things  may  yet  come  to  pass,  and  unborn  generations  may  rise  to 
do  them  honor  and  call  them  blessed.  We  shall  see.  This  was 
the  beginning  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the 
United  States. 

THE    SIGN    OF   THE    SEVEN    STARS. 

In  order  that  we  may  comprehend  the  causes  that  were  at 
work  to  produce  the  results  we  have  set  forth,  a  retrospect  of 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  37 

several  years  becomes  necessary.  An  institution  whose  object  is 
continuity,  must  have  a  permanent  location.  A  change  of 
residence  is  never  more  injurious  than  when  it  befalls  a  public 
institution,  and  the  more  so  if  that  institution  looks  to  success 
by  constant  intercourse  with  the  public.  This  was  in  one  sense 
settled  by  the  limitation,  in  the  first  charter,  to  an  ordinary  or 
drinking  saloon;  but  such  a  provision,  from  its  nature,  could 
only  be  transitory.  It  follows  that  no  struggles  were  more 
severe  than  those  which  were  made  for  a  "  local  habitation,"  and 
none  were  more  productive  of  results.  We  have  seen  that  the 
first  meetings  were  held  on  the  south  side  of  Second  Street, 
between  Frederick  Street  and  Market  Space,  at  the  sign  of  the 
Seven  Stars.  The  first  HOST  was  William  Lupton.  The  house 
had  two  stories  and  an  attic,  and  was  in  a  part  of  the  city 
mostly  occupied  by  oyster-cellars  and  saloons ;  as  very  respectable 
restaurants  were  at  that  time,  and  for  many  years  afterwards, 
in  basements,  called  cellars,  it  is  to  be  presumed  that  Lupton 
kept  a  good  house.  Such  houses  had  a  bar,  and  furnished  their 
customers  with  the  famous  Baltimore  oysters.  The  use  of  this 
house  by  Washington  Lodge  must  have  consisted  of  the  occupation 
of  an  upper  room,  furnished  with  benches  and  several  rush-bottom 
chairs.  There  was  a  rude  table,  and  a  number  of  tin  sconces 
garnished  with  candles  hung  around  the  walls.  A  few  coarse 
prints  of  sea-fights  and  domestic  animals,  with  pictures  of 
Washington,  Lafayette,  and  other  great  men  of  the  Revolution, 
were  thought  to  add  greatly  to  the  effect.  The  privacy  could 
only  have  been  secured  by  a  locked  door,  and  the  conduct  of 
secret  wrork  in  whispers;  but,  as  the  work  was  of  the  most 
meagre  description,  it  could  be  speedily  despatched.  We  may 
here  state  that  the  signs  of  such  houses  were  the  ordinary  swing- 
ing sign,  yet  to  be  found  in  many  parts  of  the  country. 

THE   THREE    LOGGERHEADS. 

It  has  been  stated  that  the  lodge  was  removed  from  Lupton's 
to  Woodward's,  on  Frederick  Street,  in  the  month  of  September, 
1819.  A  more  dismal,  out  of  the  way  place  than  the  Three 
Loggerheads  could  scarcely  have  been  selected,  it  being  near  the 
docks,  where  sailors  and  wharf-loungers  were  wont  to  assemble, 
and  was  mostly  given  up  to  the  occupancy  of  boarding-houses 
for  sailors.  But  it  was  here  that  Washington  Lodge  and  the 


38  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Order  first  grew  into  importance.  Here  was  received  the  first 
warrant  ever  granted  to  a  lodge  in  the  United  States,  from  the 
Order  in  the  mother  country,  to  conduct  the  business  of  Odd 
Fellowship.  Here  the  Covenant  and  Remembrance  Degrees 
were  first  promulgated  and  first  conferred.  Here  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States  was  instituted  and 
held  its  first  sessions.  Here  the  Grand  Lodge  Degree  was 
adopted  and  first  used,  and  here  the  Golden  Rule  Degree  was 
first  conferred  in  America.  Here  Washington  Lodge  received 
its  second  charter,  the  warrant  issued  by  the  newly  organized 
Grand  Lodge ;  in  fact,  nearly  all  of  the  main  features  which  mark 
the  progress  of  the  Order  in  that  early  day,  date  from  the  period 
when  the  whole  of  American  Odd  Fellowship  was  confined  to 
"  The  Three  Loggerheads."  Headquarters  were  at  Woodward's 
from  September,  1819,  until  January,  1822,  when  a  sudden 
removal  became  necessary. 

STILLHOUSE    LANE. 

Much  embarrassment  followed,  as  no  suitable  place  could 
readily  be  obtained ;  but  Wildey  came  forward  and  proffered  a 
room  in  his  private  dwelling,  in  "  Stillhouse  Lane,"  for  the  use  of 
both  Washington  Lodge  and  the  Grand  Lodge.  The  offer  was 
accepted,  and  the  lodges  continued  to  meet  there  until  better 
accommodations  were  secured.  Here  everything  was  in  confu- 
sion, for  want  of  those  appropriate  arrangements  which  could  not 
be  procured  in  a  private  house,  especially  in  one  so  small  and  con- 
tracted in  its  appointments  as  this  dwelling.  Very  little  business 
could  possibly  be  transacted  there,  in  anything  like  a  decorous 
manner ;  and  indeed  it  is  almost  certain  that  not  a  single  initia- 
tion took  place  in  that  house  during  their  stay,  a  period  of  at 
least  four  months.  Among  the  efforts  made  to  secure  a  suitable 
place,  it  is  related  that  Bro.  Wildey  arranged  with  a  woman 
doing  business  on  Bridge  (now  Gay)  Street,  to  occupy  the  second 
floor,  over  her  store ;  but  so  soon  as  the  workmen  began  putting 
the  premises  in  suitable  condition  for  lodge  use,  her  landlord 
became  greatly  excited  ;  he  wras  in  sympathy  with  the  prevailing 
prejudice  of  that  day  against  the  Order,  and  expected  nothing 
but  riot  and  disorder.  His  threats  to  turn  her  out  of  possession 
alarmed  her,  and  for  the  sake  of  peace  the  contract  was  aban- 
doned. After  many  failures  a  place  was  secured,  and  the  lodges 


WASHINGTON   LODGE.  39 

left  the  abode  of  Wildey  for  better  lodgings.  Bro.  Wildey,  for 
some  reason,  would  never  converse  on  the  subject  of  this  removal; 
but  Bro.  Boyd  always  referred  to  it  in  the  most  handsome  man- 
ner, regarding  it  as  affording  the  strongest  evidence  of  Wildey 's 
disinterested  love  for  the  Order.  Wildey,  he  said,  had  females 
in  his  family,  and  the  meetings  were  to  them  a  fruitful  source  of 
inconvenience  and  embarrassment ;  as  the  men  began  to  assemble, 
the  women  would  go  out  and  stay  with  the  neighbors  until 
the  meeting  wras  over;  that  this  was  always  the  case,  and  in 
fact  had  the  eifect  of  turning  his  household  out  of  doors  for 
the  sake  of  the  cause. 


MATTHEW  BLAKELEY'S  PUBLIC-HOUSE. 

The  new  situation  was  a  great  improvement;  the  room 
selected  wTas  on  the  second  floor  of  a  large  house,  and  was  com- 
fortably and  conveniently  arranged.  There  was  no  lack  of  any- 
thing that  in  those  days  was  thought  necessary  for  lodge  wrork  or 
for  lodge  use ;  mine  host  was  on  hand,  and  was  ready  to  extend 
with  promptness  the  usual  facilities  to  the  brothers,  and  all 
things  w^ore  a  more  cheerful  aspect.  This  was  at  Matthew  Blake- 
ley's  public-house,  on  the  northeast  corner  of  Marsh  Market 
Space  and  Water  (now  Lombard)  Street.  The  place  is  beyond 
dispute,  but  the  time  of  this  change  is  not  so  certain.  After  hav- 
ing consulted  all  the  conflicting  testimony,  growing  out  of  defects 
of  memory  in  the  witnesses,  and  compared  it  with  admitted 
facts  and  circumstances,  it  seems  proper  to  fix  the  time  at  about 
May,  1822.  The  following  statement,  by  P.  G.  Sire  Kennedy, 
is  of  interest  in  this  connection :  "  A  few  wreeks  before  the  death 
of  P.  G.  John  Boyd,  in  a  conversation  with  P.  G.  M.  Mathiot 
and  the  writer,  he  said  the  lodge  remained  at  Wildey's  dwelling 
for  several  months,  he  thought  at  least  six  months  from  the  time 
it  left  Woodward's,  in  January,  1822.  Mrs.  Eliza  J.  Adams, 
widow  of  Brother  Win.  Adams,  who,  on  April  1st,  1823,  suc- 
ceeded Blakeley  as  host  of  the  lodge,  says  the  lodge  was  brought 
to  Blakeley's  about  a  year  before  her  husband  took  possession  of 
the  place.  P.  G.  Secretary  Fennell  thinks  he  was  initiated 
in  1821,  but  knows  the  ceremony  took  place  at  the  Market 
Space  room.  Of  course  Fennell  is  incorrect  in  time,  as  at  that 
period  the  lodge  was  still  in  session  at  Woodward's,  and  in 
addition  he  disavows  all  knowledge  of  the  meetings  being  held 


40  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

at  either  Woodward's  or  at  Wildey's  dwelling.  "When  Fennell  was 
initiated  lie  was  registered  as  No.  122,  and  when  Mathiot  was 
initiated  he  was  registered  as  No.  177,  presenting  a  difference  of 
fifty-five  members  between  them ;  which,  at  the  rate  of  increase 
then  existing,  would  require  nearly  a  year  to  make  it  up.  And 
in  view  of  Mathiot  being  somewhat  active  as  a  member  in  the 
summer  of  1823,  Fennell  must  have  been  initiated  about  May, 

1822.  From  all  of  which  it  may  be  deduced  that  the  lodge 
reached  Market  Space  early  in  May,  1822." 

CONDITION    OF   THE    ORDER    IN    MAY,    1822. 

It  is  difficult  to  determine  with  certainty  the  number  of  the 
membership  at  this  time.  "We  may  at  least  try  to  estimate  it 
by  some  instances  that  were  well  attested  at  that  period. 
Fennell  was  sure  that  he  was  one  of  the  early  admissions  after 
the  removal,  and  he  stood  on  the  register  as  Number  122;  it 
follows  that  the  whole  number  admitted  by  initiation  and  affilia- 
tion from  the  26th  of  April,  1819,  until  this  time,  a  period  of 
about  three  years,  was  equal  to  his  number,  say  one  hundred  and 
twenty-two.  But  we  must  deduct  from  these  the  deaths  and 
the  withdrawals,  as  well  as  those  suspended  and  expelled.  These 
can  only  be  obtained  by  comparison  of  this  with  other  periods 
of  the  history ;  after  doing  this,  we  have  concluded  that  there 
should  be  a  reduction  on  gross  figures  of  about  one-third  for 
three  years.  On  this  basis  we  have  fixed  the  net  membership  of 
Washington  Lodge,  at  the  time  designated,  at  about  eighty.  At 
the  same  time  we  incline  to  think  that  our  rule  for  the  enumera- 
tion would  have  a  tendency  to  increase  rather  than  to  diminish 
the  result ;  this  is  made  very  probable,  because  the  vestiges  of 
extant  records  indicate  a  much  freer  use  of  the  power  of  expul 
sion  then  than  has  since  been  exercised;  this  vigilance  anc5 
severity  was,  no  doubt,  greatly  needed  in  sifting  the  mixed 
elements  that  were  brought  together  under  such  novel  conditionB 
The  meetings  of  the  lodge  at  this  place  inaugurated  a  marked 
and  important  progress.  It  was  to  Blakeley's  that  in  January , 

1823,  Brother  James  Wilson  came  as  a  visitor,  and  was  received 
in  the  most  cordial  manner  by  the  lodge  and  the  members.     He 
claimed  to  belong  to  a  lodge  of  Odd  Fellows  at  Boston,  Massa- 
chusetts, and  he  was  recognized  as  a  brother.     Every  attention 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  4:1 

in  their  power  was  paid  to  him ;  not  content  with  conferring  the 
three  degrees  of  the  Manchester  Unity,  they  also  gave  him  the 
intermediate  degrees  that  had  been  originated  in  Maryland. 
These  fraternal  attentions  made  a  profound  impression  upon 
Wilson;  for,  on  his  return  to  Boston,  he  made  a  report  in 
every  way  favorable  of  what  he  had  seen  and  learned  in  Balti- 
more. This  was  not  confined  to  his  personal  treatment ;  but  he 
also  gave  such  an  account  of  the  great  superiority  of  the  condition 
of  the  brethren  in  the  latter  city,  as  to  incline  his  associates  to 
cultivate  the  most  intimate  relations  with  them.  He  explained 
to  them  the  character  of  the  authority  which  had  been  vested  in 
the  Order  at  Baltimore  for  extending  the  fraternity  all  over  the 
country ;  information  appealing  to  them  most  forcibly,  as  a  bond 
of  a  widespread  unity  for  the  common  good.  These  representa- 
tions induced  "Massachusetts  Lodge,"  on  March  28,  1823,  to 
make  application  for  a  dispensation  to  be  endowed  with 
Grand  Lodge  powers  in  and  for  the  State  of  Massachusetts. 
Nothing  was  known  by  these  brethren  of  the  resignation  of 
its  charter  by  Washington  Lodge,  and  the  application  for  the 
dispensation  was  accordingly  made  to  it;  but  this  did  not 
change  the  result.  Its  successors,  having  the  charter,  pro- 
ceeded at  once  to  act  upon  the  petition.  At  a  session  held 
on  April  13,  1823,  a  dispensation  was  granted  to  "Massachusetts 
Lodge,  No.  1,"  and  another  to  the  Past  Grands  of  that  Lodge  for 
the  "  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts  " ;  thus  covering  the  whole 
ground,  instead  of  complying  literally  with  the  wishes  of  the 
applicants.  This  action  was  deemed  to  be  of  such  moment,  that 
G.  M.  Wildey  was  deputed  to  convey  the  warrants  to  Boston, 
and  to  present  them  to  the  brothers  in  an  acceptable  manner. 
This  duty  he  performed  in  the  month  of  June  following.  Thus, 
the  performance  of  the  rites  of  friendship  and  hospitality  to  a 
strange  brother  secured  the  adhesion  of  Massachusetts,  but  was 
also  the  indirect,  if  not  the  immediate  cause  which  induced 
other  lodges,  then  existing  in  an  irregular  manner  at  New  York 
and  Philadelphia,  to  recognize  the  authority  of  the  "Grand 
Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States";  a  result  which 
caused  a  new  union,  in  the  organization  of  a  Sovereign  and 
Representative  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States ;  substantially 
the  same  body  which  has  -ever  since  guided  the  eventful  career 
of  the  now  mighty  system  of  American  Odd  Fellowship. 


42  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

But  we  have  been  led  away  from  the  particular  purposes  of  this 
chapter,  which  are  not  to  relate  that  which  is  generally  known,  but 
those  things  which  were  the  undercurrent,  so  to  speak,  which 
have  come  down  to  us  mostly  by  tradition,  and  which  have  no 
record  but  in  these  pages.  The  extension  of  the  system  to  Bos- 
ton has  been  briefly  sketched,  more  with  the  object  of  relating 
the  incident  that  caused  it,  than  the  extension  itself;  the  particu- 
lars attending  upon  that  act,  including  the  pilgrimage  of  Wildey 
to  the  land  of  steady  habits,  and  his  good  fortune  by  the  way, 
will  be  reserved  for  the  next  chapter.  We  shall  now  enter  our 
ancient  lodge-rooms,  and  examine  into  those  habits  of  the  early 
members  which,  from  their  effects  upon  society  in  general,  must 
have  been  potent  in  their  influence  upon  the  struggling  Order. 

THE    CONVIVIAL    FEATURE. 

The  drinking  of  beer  as  a  beverage  seems  to  have  been  carried 
to  England  by  its  Saxon  conquerors,  as  one  of  the  most  healthful 
and  delightful  of  the  habits  of  the  fatherland.  Its  very  name  is  of 
Teutonic  origin ;  and  although  we  have  information  of  such  drinks 
so  far  back  as  ancient  Egypt,  yet  a  more  modern  authority, 
Tacitus,  assures  us  that  it  was  in  common  use  with  the  Germans 
of  his  time.  Be  that  as  it  may,  the  habit  has  been  so  long  and 
thoroughly  impressed  upon  the  people  of  England,  as  to  cause  it 
to  be  recognized  as  a  sort  of  popular  institution.  Indeed,  at  cer- 
tain periods  and  under  peculiar  circumstances  of  national  history, 
fermented  malt  liquors  seem  to  have  supplied  large  masses  of  its 
population  with  both  victuals  and  drink,  so  that  they  in  time 
came  to  be  considered  as  necessaries  of  life.  Notwithstanding 
all  that  has  been  said  and  sung  of  the  "  lioast  Beef  of  Old  Eng- 
land," beer,  for  the  most  part,  has  supplied  its  place  for  six  days 
in  the  week,  and,  we  may  add,  the  seventh  also.  It  does  not, 
therefore,  surprise  any  one  to  find  that,  in  the  earliest  organization 
of  Odd  Fellowship  of  which  tradition  makes  any  mention,  beer 
drinking  was  a  necessary  part  of  the  proceedings.  Such  also  has 
been  the  case  with  those  who  have  succeeded ;  for,  in  accordance 
with  the  habits  of  the  English  people,  the  same  practice  has  con- 
tinued in  all  branches  of  the  Order  in  that  country,  with  scarcely 
an  exception,  until  the  present  day.  When  those  people  emi- 
grated, like  pious  ^Eneas,  they  carried  with  them  their  household 
gods ;  for  instance,  their  Odd  Fellowship,  and  with  it  the  time- 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  43 

honored  usage  of  the  drinking  of  beer,  as  one  of  its  most  indis- 
pensable features.  As  such  persons  formed  new  associations  they 
imparted  the  habit,  and  as  such  associations  became  American, 
beer,  in  many  instances,  gave  place  to  more  popular  beverages. 
Spirituous  liquors  soon  began  to  supplant  the  beer ;  and  what  was 
before  comparatively  an  innocent  indulgence,  became  a  serious 
and  growing  evil.  Such  was  the  condition  of  every  lodge  in  the 
summer  of  1823. 

THE    MARYLAND   REFORM. 

But  another  element  had,  in  the  meantime,  begun  to  appear, 
and  to  bring  with  it  habits  more  in  unison  with  the  strange  com- 
munity into  which  they  had  come.  The  Order  had  found  advo- 
cates among  the  native  population,  who  were  gradually  being 
drawn  to  examine  its  claims ;  many  of  whom,  by  this  time,  were 
so  well  satisfied  as  to  enter  the  lodges,  and  became  able  and  influ- 
ential in  their  counsels.  The  novelty  and  excitement  of  the  neo- 
phytes soon  began  to  wear  off,  and  with  them,  the  veneration  that 
at  first  attached  to  many  of  the  usages.  These  new  men  were 
naturally  anxious  to  impress  the  moral  habits  of  the  locality  upon 
those  who  preferred  others  of  a  foreign  and  different  nature.  One 
of  the  first  usages  brought  in  question,  was  that  of  the  presence 
of  liquor  in  the  lodge-room  during  the  sessions.  This  abuse,  as 
is  usual  with  old  habits,  could  not  easily  be  reformed.  But  a 
crusade  was  set  on  foot  for  its  extirpation,  by  a  young  member  of 
Washington  Lodge,  which,  after  many  contests  and  successive 
defeats,  was  at  last  successful ;  a  change  so  vital  as  eventually 
to  revolutionize  the  moral  character  of  the  American  Order,  and 
which  was  afterwards  known  as  the  "MARYLAND  REFORM." 
Augustus  Mathiot,  then  a  member  of  but  a  few  months'  standing, 
had  been  very  badly  treated  by  another  society  in  which  he  had 
been  proposed  for  membership,  where  his  application  had  been 
rejected  on  the  sole  ground  that  he  was  a  member  of  "  that  Bac- 
chanalian Club  of  Odd  Fellows."  He  was  notified  in  writing 
that  if  he  would  withdraw  from  the  Odd  Fellows,  he  would  gladly 
be  received  among  them.  But  young  Mathiot  was  a  man  of  fine 
intelligence,  and  understood  the  situation  too  well  to  accept  the 
proposition,  and  he  returned  them  an  answer  in  which  he  indig- 
nantly spurned  their  offer.  But  much  as  he  loved  the  Order,  lie 
t-ould  not  shut  his  eyes  to  the  fact  that  it  had  given  cause  for  com- 


44  AMERICAN   ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

plaint.,  and  he  was  deeply  wounded  at  being  singled  out  to  suffer 
for  his  brethren  in  a  matter  which  he  could  neither  approve  nor 
defend.  Those  who  knew  Bro.  Mathiot  were  aware  of  his  extreme 
sensibility  to  anything  which  affected  his  reputation  with  the  public. 
He  did  not  hesitate  a  moment,  but  brought  the  facts  at  once  to  the 
attention  of  his  lodge ;  having  told  his  grievance,  he  changed  their 
indignation  to  sympathy,  by  relating  the  sacrifice  he  had  made 
and  his  election  never  to  desert  his  brethren.  But  he  was 
induced  to  go  further,  and  expostulated  against  the  continuance 
of  a  practice  which  exposed  them  to  insult,  and  exhorted  them 
earnestly  to  the  observance  of  a  stricter  regard  for  public  opinion. 
Hurried  on  by  the  impulse,  he  wrote  and  offered  the  following : 
"  Resolved,  That  this  lodge  will  hereafter  abolish  the  use  of  liquor 
of  any  kind  in  the  Lodge  Room."  The  boldness  and  suddenness 
of  the  movement  was  so  unexpected,  and  the  feeling  for  Mathiot 
so  strong,  that  they  did  not  hesitate  to  act  at  once  upon  it.  A 
very  feeble  opposition  was  exhibited ;  and,  strange  to  say,  when 
the  vote  was  taken,  it  was  very  nearly  unanimous  for  its  adop- 
tion. The  lesson  taught  by  this  proceeding  is  honorable  to  all 
concerned.  The  old  members  were  wredded  to  a  practice  coeval 
with  the  Order  and  part  of  its  regular  "  usage."  It  had  become 
so  much  a  part  of  the  system  as  to  seem  a  necessity.  No  voice 
had  ever  been  heard,  before  that  night,  to  utter  a  word  of  censure 
of  this  indispensable  appendage ;  but  a  sense  of  their  responsibil- 
ity, so  strikingly  presented,  discovered  the  fact  that  the  principles 
were  gradually  gaining  an  ascendancy,  at  the  expense  of  the  prac- 
tices. It  did  not  accomplish  much  at  the  time,  but  every  one 
could  see,  in  this  action,  that  a  total  reformation  of  Lodge  convivi- 
ality was  only  delayed,  and  was  something  that  must  at  length 
prevail. 

THE   RIGHTS    OF    A    HOST. 

But  even  this  small  step  could  not  at  once  be  effected,  under 
the  terms  of  the  agreement  with  the  landlord  of  the  premises. 
Heretofore  a  Host  was  regarded  as  an  official  personage  of  the 
highest  rank  and  influence,  and  his  rights  as  landlord  had  been 
more  sacredly  respected  than  any  other  in  the  whole  range  of 
Odd  Fellowship.  It  cannot  be  doubted  that  in  early  times, 
warrants  were  nominally  issued  to  lodges,  but  were  designed 
more  for  the  protection  of  the  landlord  and  the  promotion  of  his 


SCENE. 


DOOR 


LODGE  ROOM  AT  THE  THREE  LOGGERHEADS. 

SEPTEMBER    4819    TO    JANUARY    1822. 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  45 

business  than  for  any  other  purpose.  They  all  invariably  con- 
tained the  same  clause  found  in  the  Duke  of  York's  Lodge 
Charter  to  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  viz : 

"And  be  it  further  observed,  that  the  said  Lodge  be  not 
removed  from  the  house  of  Brother  Thomas  Woodward,  so  long 
as  five  brothers  are  agreeable  to  hold  the  same." 

This  clause  gave  the  Host  a  proprietary  right  in  the  lodge, 
not  to  be  overcome  by  a  majority  vote ;  in  addition,  it  became 
his  personal  property  in  this,  that  so  long  as  four  others  agreed 
with  him  to  that  end,  the  lodge  was  forced  to  follow  him  to 
every  new  location  where  fortune  or  inclination  might  lead  him. 
This  was  submitted  to,  somewhat  ungraciously,  and  the  feeling 
on  the  subject  was  not  improved  by  the  fact  that  a  change  had 
been  made  from  Woodward's,  under  circumstances  to  show  that 
great  injury  might  ensue  from  such  a  relation;  so  that  when 
the  dispensation  was  presented  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland 
to  Washington  Lodge,  it  was  made  to  read:  "To  establish  a 
Lodge  in  any  convenient  place,  to  be  hailed  by  the  title  of  the 
Washington  Lodge,  No.  1."  In  the  case  of  Brother  Mathiot's 
resolution,  nothing  could  be  done  without  a  change  in  the  place 
of  meeting;  for  Brother  Adams,  the  Host,  who  succeeded 
Blakeley,  looked  upon  the  whole  proceeding  as  tending  to  lessen 
his  importance  and  injure  his  business;  hence,  he  very  naturally 
felt  that  he  was  selected  for  personal  insult  on  the  part  of  the 
lodge.  He  therefore  insisted  on  such  of  his  rights  as  were 
usual,  even  when  the  liquor  was  absent  from  the  room,  and  so, 
during  that  part  of  the  business  known  as  "HARMONY,"  continued 
to  solicit  custom,  and  to  bring  into  the  lodge-room  such  refresh- 
ments as  visitors  or  members  might  desire.  P.  G.  Sire  Kennedy, 
a  short  time  before  his  death,  made  this  note  on  the  subject : 
"Mrs.  Eliza  J.  Adams,  the  widow  of  Host  William  Adams, 
still  resides  in  the  same  house  in  which  the  lodge  met  in  1823, 
and  within  the  past  year,  in  a  conversation  witli  the  writer  and 
Brother  Mathiot,  she  said  that  she  received  the  information  of 
the  vote  with  much  pleasure,  as  she  had  previously  told  her 
husband  it  was  a  pity  that  a  society  that  had  so  much  in  its 
favor  should  spoil  it  all  by  indulging  in  drink."  Past  Grand 
Master  Mathiot  continued  his  membership  in  Washington  Lodge, 
and  his  residence  in  Baltimore,  until  his  death  on  the  12th  day 
of  July,  1872.  He  will  have  clue  notice  of  the  most  honorable 


46  AMERICAN"    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

kind,  in  the  proper  place  in  this  volume,  among  the  leading  spirits 
of  the  Order.  It  is  well  to  note,  in  this  connection,  that  Mathiot 
had  been  anticipated  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of 
the  United  States,  which  in  its  Constitution  adopted  April  13> 
1823,  placed  this  paragraph : 

"  AKT.  II.  No  refreshments  shall  be  allowed  in  the  Lodge 
Room  during  its  session." 

But  we  have  no  reason  to  believe  that  it  was  made  known  to 
the  lodges  in  any  way ;  certainly  it  was  not  printed,  and  no 
means  were  devised  for  the  circulation  of  the  instrument  of 
which  it  was  a  part.  But  it  clearly  indicates  that  Boyd,  who 
served  on  the  committee  with  Wildey  and  Larkam,  and  who  no 
doubt  prepared  the  paper,  was  fully  alive  to  the  exigencies  of 
the  future.  True,  the  prohibition  applied  only  to  the  sessions  of 
the  Grand  Lodge;  but  it  is  memorable  as  the  first  known 
instance  on  record,  of  a  restriction  of  the  kind  having  had  an 
existence  in  the  Order.  It  is  claimed,  but  we  cannot  say  upon 
what  evidence,  that  it  wTas  sent  to  the  Manchester  Unity,  and 
caused  a  slight  sensation.  At  the  session  held  by  the  "Man- 
chester Movable  Committee,"  at  Hawley,  Staffordshire,  on  May 
19,  1823,  they  took  this  action : 

"Resolved,  that  no  liquor  be  allowed  in  the  Committee  Room 
before  dinner." 

The  movement  was  scarcely  perceptible,  and  never  came  to 
anything,  and  may  rather  indeed  be  put  down  as  something 
accidental  and  of  no  serious  meaning.  No  further  step  by  that 
body  has  ever  been  taken,  although  great  efforts  have  been  made 
with  that  object.  One  may  judge  how  they  are  subjugated  to 
the  "  old  usage "  by  a  late  occurrence.  At  the  session  of  the 
"Annual  Movable  Committee,"  held  at  Lancaster  on  May  20, 
1872,  a  resolution  was  introduced  to  the  effect,  "  that  no  liquor 
be  allowed  during  the  sittings  of  this  meeting " ;  but  an  over- 
whelming majority  suppressed  it,  and  in  the  excitement  pro- 
duced by  such  a  daring  proposal  a  motion  like  to  have  prevailed 
for  the  repeal  of  the  resolution  of  1823. 

But,  to  return  to  Brother  Mathiot's  resolution  and  the  results 
that  shortly  after  followed.  It  so  happened  that  the  Masonic 
Hall,  erected  by  that  body,  was  soon  after  completed,  or  nearly 
so,  and  lodges  of  that  fraternity  began  to  remove  to  its  better 
accommodations  on  St.  Paul's  Lane,  in  a  central  part  of  the 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  47 

city.  By  this  rrreans  several  meeting  rooms  formerly  occupied 
by  them  became  vacant.  A  committee  was  at  once  appointed  to 
engage  and  appropriately  fit  up  one  of  these  rooms.  The  com- 
mittee, of  which  Brother  Boyd  was  chairman,  selected  a  room  in 
a  locality  where  no  liquor  was  sold.  It  was  in  the  second  story 
of  an  extensive  clothing  store,  at  the  intersection  of  Cheapside, 
Calvert  and  Water  Streets.  With  great  expedition  it  was 
suitably  fitted  up  for  their  uses,  and  the  whole  Order  in  Balti- 
more took  immediate  possession  ;  the  Order,  of  course,  consisting 
only  of  Washington  and  Franklin  Lodges.  But  before  the 
lodges  were  settled  in  the  place,  it  was  discovered  that  a  member 
of  the  Order  had  obtained  possession  of  a  store  on  Calvert  Street, 
and  was  fitting  it  up  as  a  drinking  place.  This  discovery  caused 
a  change  in  the  original  plan,  which  wTas  to  have  a  drinking 
place  on  the  premises,  but  at  a  distance  from  the  lodge-room. 
So,  to  disappoint  the  brother,  and  put  a  stop  to  his  business,  they 
hit  on  the  expedient  of  fitting  up  an  apartment  connected  with 
the  anteroom,  where  all  demands  for  refreshments  could  be 
supplied.  It  was  gravely  claimed  at  the  time,  that  this  was  not 
in  violation  of  the  resolution,  as  they  were  not  spread  out  in 
open  lodge-room.  This  arrangement  checkmated  the  brother, 
but  did  not  do  much  for  temperance.  A  brother  who  furnishes 
these  items,  says,  naively  enough :  "  Under  these  circumstances  the 
Lodge  became  reconciled  to  the  arrangement"  We  should  think 
so.  A  more  bungling  attempt  at  reformation  was  never  made. 
The  lodge  now  became  its  own  landlord,  and  actually  hired  a 
Host  and  bought  the  stock,  so  that  all  the  profits  went  into  the 
lodge  treasury.  This  was  reform  "  with  a  vengeance,"  and  much 
solid  satisfaction  was  no  doubt  felt  that  the  lodge  was  now  both 
landlord  and  customer.  It  was  with  many  a  smile  that  they 
greeted  the  young  brother  who  had  rid  them  of  a  Host. 
Thus  Mathiot's  reform,  wrhich  was  theoretically  a  great  success, 
by  a  single  stroke  of  rather  humorous  strategy  became  a  practical 
failure. 

FRANKLIN    LODGE,    NO.    2,    IN    1823. 

But  we  retiirn  to  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2,  which  for  some 
time  occupied  the  same  room  with  the  Washington  Lodge  at 
Host  Adams'.  According  to  the  then  operative  theory,  nothing 
less  than  an  extreme  necessity  could  excuse  it ;  and  it  must  have 


48  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

been  regarded  by  every  one  at  the  time,  as  a  gross  innovation  on 
"  ancient  usage " ;  for  that  code  allowed  no  two  lodges  to  be 
located  in  the  same  neighborhood,  to  say  nothing  of  the  same 
house.  But  Franklin  Lodge  had  also  been  unfortunate  in  its 
place  of  meeting ;  never  keeping  any  location,  but  holding  its 
sessions  first  in  one  public-house  and  then  in  another,  until  by 
some  accident,  one  cannot  say  how,  it .  was  found  in  the  early 
part  of  1823,  occupant  of  the  same  room  with  Washington  Lodge. 
At  this  period  there  was  a  prosperous  turn  to  its  affairs,  for  it  is 
estimated  that  it  began  to  number  about  the  same  as  Washington 
Lodge.  This  was  the  judgment  of  one  who  saw  it  in  procession 
at  the  funeral  of  a  member  of  that  lodge  in  the  spring  of  1823. 
As  this  was  the  first  public  funeral  of  the  kind  in  this  country, 
of  which  we  have  any  knowledge,  we  furnish  its  description 
from  an  eye-witness  well  able  to  describe  it.  The  story  is  told 
by  Past  Grand  Sire  Kennedy. 

FIRST    PUBLIC    ODD    FELLOw's    FUNERAL. 

"In  the  early  spring  of  1823,  Andrew  Wark,  a  member  of 
Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2,  while  engaged  in  superintending  a  shad 
fishery  on  the  shore  of  Chesapeake  bay,  was  accidentally  knocked 
overboard  by  the  boom  of  his  vessel  and  drowned.  His  body  was 
found,  and  brought  for  interment  to  his  home  in  Baltimore,  on 
Bridge  (Gray)  Street,  near  High.  On  the  day  of  the  funeral,  the 
widow  informed  the  writer  that  her  husband  would  be  buried  at 
night,  as  the  society  of  which  he  was  a  member  buried  its  dead 
at  midnight.  The  time  fixed  for  the  funeral  was  ten  o'clock 
P.  M.,  when,  with  several  friends,  we  were  punctually  present. 
The  lodge,  however,  did  not  appear  so  early ;  but  it  was  there  in 
ample  time,  with  a  band  of  six  or  seven  pieces,  which  marched 
in  front.  The  procession  came  to  view  as  a  great  glare  of  light 
as  it  was  crossing  the  bridge,  illuminating  the  street  through  the 
middle  of  which  it  was  passing.  To  an  unpracticed  eye  the  pro- 
cession seemed  to  be  in  the  utmost  disorder,  as  the  column  of  sev- 
enty or  eighty  men  took  position  in  front  of  the  late  domicile  of 
the  deceased.  The  chief  officer,  probably  the  marshal,  was  the 
only  person  of  the  party  of  whom  we  had  any  knowledge  ;  Eze- 
kiel  C.  Gill,  a  trunk-maker,  was  well  known  to  us,  but  not  favor- 
ably. He  was  very  busy  up  and  down  the  line,  keeping  the  column 
in  order,  as  we  foolishly  supposed.  But  that  was  our  mistake. 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  49 

We  did  not  know  that  good  order  in  those  ranks  consisted  in  pre- 
serving the  sections  in  such  a  way  as  to  have  not  more  than  five 
iiles  in  each,  and  in  no  case  to  have  an  even  number  of  files  in  a 
section.  By  such  an  arrangement,  everybody  could  readily  see 
that  they  were  Odd  Fellows.  Marshal  Gill  was  kept  hard  at 
work  preserving  the  equipoise  of  the  sections ;  that  is,  a  front  of 
one,  three  or  five  files.  Officers  and  members  were  in  appropri- 
ate lodge  costume  ;  gowns,  caps,  sashes,  collars  and  aprons,  of 
white,  black,  blue  and  scarlet  colors.  The  gowns,  as  a  general 
thing,  had  been  made  to  fit  much  larger  men ;  the  same  was  true 
of  the  caps,  which  were  fashioned  after  the  forms  of  crowns  and 
coronets.  Each  officer  bore  the  emblem  of  his  office  in  his  hand. 
Six  or  seven  of  the  members  were  in  deep  mourning,  and  occu- 
pied the  center  of  the  crowd.  These  were  enveloped  in  narrow 
strips  of  black  muslin  or  crape,  which  hung  from  their  hats  almost 
to  the  ground.  They  bore  black  rods,  eight  or  ten  feet  long,  sur- 
mounted by  spheres  of  some  kind ;  the  spheres  covered  with  black 
•cloth,  with  black  streamers,  three  or  four  feet  long,  pendant. 
Every  person  not  provided  with  an  official  emblem  of  some  sort, 
bore  a  flaming  torch.  Some  of  the  torches  we  recognized  as 
belonging  to  a  fire  company  in  the  neighborhood  ;  others  of  them 
were  extemporized  for  the  occasion  ;  many  of  the  latter  resembled 
the  rope  torches  said  to  have  been  used  by  the  ancients  on  sim- 
ilar occasions.  At  eleven  o'clock  P.  M.  the  coffin  was  brought 
forth  and  placed  in  a  hearse,  which  then  took  position  in  the  cen- 
ter of  the  column ;  the  bearers  of  the  black  spheres  surrounded 
the  hearse,  as  if  acting  as  pall-bearers.  The  line  of  march  was 
then  taken  up,  with  solemn  music  and  slow  steps,  toward  the 
churchyard  ;  the  distance  of  half  or  three-quarters  of  a  mile  was 
accomplished  a  few  minutes  before  midnight.  The  remains  were 
then  silently  lowered  into  the  grave ;  not  a  word  was  spoken ;  but 
each  member  then  threw  one  or  two  shovelfuls  of  earth  upon 
the  coffin,  until  the  grave  was  filled  up.  The  procession  reformed 
its  disordered  ranks,  the  mutes,  as  before,  in  the  center,  and 

departed  as  it  came." 
* 

COLUMBIA    LODGE,  NO.  3. 


But  we  return  to  the  narrative.     The  active  progress  of  the 
Order  in  1823,  wras  evinced  by  the  organization  of  a  third  lodge 
in  Baltimore.     Several  members  of  Franklin  Lodge,  Xo.  2,  resid- 
4 


50  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

ing  in  the  eastern  portion  of  the  city,  were  not  pleased  with  the 
new  lodge  location,  regarding  it  as  remote  and  inconvenient. 
They  therefore  determined,  if  they  could  procure  suitable  accom- 
modations in  "  Old  Town,"  to  open  a  lodge  in  that  part  of  the 
city.  These  they  were  enabled  to  procure,  through  the  assistance 
of  G.  M.  Wildey.  The  following  names  appear  in  the  applica- 
tion for  a  charter :  P.  G.  Thomas  Scotchburn,  P.  Y.  G.  Samuel 
Bickley,  and  brothers  Saunders,  Steward,  Turnbull,  Moore  and 
Winn,  all  of  Franklin  Lodge.  The  petition  asks  that  the  lodge 
may  be  styled  "  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  3,"  and  may  be  allowed  to 
meet  on  Wednesday  nights.  The  grant  was  made  as  requested, 
at  a  session  of  the  Grand  Lodge  held  November  22d,  1823,  and 
the  lodge  was  organized  on  December  17th,  1823,  at  Colvin's 
Stone  Tavern.  The  records  of  the  lodge  show  that  the  event 
was  one  of  no  small  importance.  All  the  Grand  Officers  were 
present :  G.  M.  Thomas  Wildey,  D.  G.  M.  John  Welch,  G.  W. 
Thomas  Mitchell,  G.  Sec'y  John  P.  Entwisle,  A.  G.  Sec'y  Maur- 
ice Femiell,  G.  C.  Charles  Common,  G.  G.  pro  tern.,  P.  G.  John 
Nelson,  and  Past  Grands  Williams  and  Bannister,  N.  G.  Havins, 
of  Washington  Lodge,  and  N.  G.  Roach,  of  Franklin  Lodge, 
"  together  with  a  very  respectable  and  numerous  collection  of 
brothers  of  the  Order."  In  fact,  it  was  a  gala  occasion,  which  had 
drawn  together  what  was  substantially  the  whole  Order  in  Balti- 
more. After  the  lodge  had  been  formally  instituted,  by  virtue 
of  a  special  resolution  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  the  Grand  Officers 
retained  the  chairs  and  received  proposals  for  membership.  Re- 
ports were  made  and  four  candidates  were  unanimously  elected ; 
whereupon  Thomas  Charters  and  Joshua  Yansant  "  were  brought 
forward  and  duly  made."  The  lodge  then  proceeded  to  the  elec- 
tion of  officers,  w^hen  the  following  named  were  elected  "  without 
opposition,"  and  wrere  duly  installed:  P.  G.  Scotchburn,  N.  G.; 
Brother  Steward,  Y.  G.;  and  P.  Y.  G.  Bickley,  Secretary.  The 
following  appointed  officers  wrere  then  also  installed:  Brother 
Moore,  Warden ;  Bro.  Yansant,  Conductor ;  Bro.  Saunders,  Guar- 
dian ;  Bro.  Turnbull,  R.  H.  S.  of  N.  G.,  and  Bro.  Charters,  R.  IL 
S.  of  Y.  G.  It  will  strike  the  reader,  especially  if  he  be  of  Mary- 
land, or  a  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  Sates,  that 
the  new  lodge  was  fortunate  indeed  in  one  of  its  initiates.  That 
must  have  been  the  opinion  of  the  Noble  Grand  when  young 
Yansant  was  chosen  as  the  Conductor.  But  that  preference  was 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  51 

only  indicative  of  the  fact  that  he  was  a  youth  of  promise ;  for  he 
was  poor  and  friendless,  and  was  beginning  life  at  the  bottom 
of  the  ladder.  He  had  just  come  of  age;  a  humble  mechanic, 
with  no  prospect  before  him  of  rising  above  the  level  of  the  toil- 
ing masses.  Plunging  into  the  wide  world,  he  disappears  from 
our  gaze,  and  even  for  a  time  from  the  Order.  But  this  was 
owing  to  the  res  angusta  domi  of  a  young  husband  and  father 
just  entering  upon  the  responsible  duties  of  domestic  life.  Soon 
he  will  be  seen  emerging  from  his  retirement,  a  successful  work- 
man, taking  place  among  his  fellows,  and  doing  manly  and  effec- 
tive service  for  his  lodge  and  the  Order.  Henceforth  he  devotes 
himself  to  the  cause,  as  one  who  never  tires  in  welldoing. 
A  born  leader,  he  makes  himself  felt  in  all  directions,  and  as  a 
representative  man  of  the  people,  is  second  to  none  in  winning 
the  public  favor  for  the  Order  in  the  place  of  its  nativity.  By 
superior  talent  and  vigor  he  rises  to  fill  high  places  in  the 
State,  sitting  in  and  sometimes  presiding  over  a  convention  to 
revise  its  Constitution,  and  devising  and  superintending  many  of 
the  greatest  institutions  of  his  city,  with  an  integrity  and  capa- 
city that  gained  for  him  the  popular  sobriquet  of  "  Honest 
Joshua."  In  the  meanwhile  he  serves  a  term  in  the  Congress  of 
the  United  States,  when  to  do  so  was  a  badge  of  honor ;  and  nowy 
after  three-score  years  and  ten  of  active  life,  we  see  him  retiring 
with  applause  from  his  second  term  as  Mayor  of  the  great  city  of 
his  residence.  In  this  tribute  to  a  Past  Grand  Master  and  Past 
Grand  Patriarch  and  Past  Grand  Representative  to  the  Congress 
of  the  Order,  one  may  recognize  the  well-known  Grand  Treasurer 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  who  has  long  been  one 
of  its  most  trusted  and  honored  officers.  Public  duty  and  per- 
sonal worth,  as  well  as  private  friendship,  incite  us  to  give  him 
here  and  now  the  meed  to  which  he  is  entitled  by  the  common 
voice  of  the  brotherhood. 

But  we  return  to  the  proceedings  of  the  first  meeting  of  the 
third  lodge.  At  the  time  of  the  delivery  to  the  lodge  of  the  dis- 
pensation under  which  it  was  authorized  to  work,  the  Grand 
Master  addressed  the  brethren  in  fitting  words. 

ADDRESS    OF    GRAND    MASTER   WILDEY. 

*'  Most  Noble  Grand,  Vice  Grand,  Officers  and  Brothers  : 

"  In  committing  this  dispensation  to  your  charge   and  into 


52  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

your  safe-keeping,  the  Grand  Lodge  executes  one  of  the  most 
pleasing  and  delightful  tasks  which  fall  within  the  lines  of  its 
duty  to  perform ;  and  you,  in  receiving  it,  lay  yourselves  under 
the  most  serious  responsibility  you  can  possibly  undertake. 
Well  acquainted  as  some  of  you  are  with  the  nature  of  those 
engagements  which  bind  Odd  Fellows  together,  yet  the  Grand 
Lodge  deems  it  neither  unnecessary  nor  inexpedient  to  remind 
you  of  some  of  them,  as  well  to  stimulate  to  activity  and  perse- 
verance those  who  have  already  traveled  the  beaten  track,  as  to 
diffuse  light  and  impart  instruction  to  the  young  and  inexpe- 
rienced, though  worthy,  brothers  of  the  Order.  You  are  now 
vested  with  the  legitimate  authority  to  admit  to  the  benefits  and 
honors  of  our  institution  such  persons  as  may  apply,  who,  after 
due  and  circumspect  investigation,  may  be  found  worthy  of  the 
distinguished  favor.  In  so  doing,  you  are  admitting  members 
into  a  family  as  extensive  in  its  connections,  its  operations,  and 
its  claims  as  the  habitable  globe  itself.  Every  person  so  admitted 
must  become  an  honor  or  a  disgrace,  an  ornament  and  support, 
or  a  blemish  and  burden,  to  our  fraternity.  The  effect  of  useful 
or  baneful  admissions  to  membership  will  not  be  confined  to  your 
lodge  alone,  but  will  affect,  for  good  or  evil,  the  whole  body  of 
Odd  Fellowship.  If  caution  and  care  are  necessary  when  per- 
sons are  received  into  societies  dispensing  ordinary  benefits, 
whose  social  relations  extend  no  further  than  to  their  own  indi- 
vidual membership,  how  much  more  should  you  exercise  caution 
and  care,  when  your  admissions  are  into  a  fraternity  of  limitless 
extent;  laying  open  to  those  you  receive,  the  privileges  which  do 
not  belong  to  us  alone,  but  which  are  the  joint  possession  of  bro- 
thers in  the  most  distant  lands,  who  are  equally  interested  with 
ourselves  in  preserving  the  dearest  and  inalienable  rights  of  our 
fraternity.  While  exercising  this  very  necessary  prudence,  we 
must  remember,  on  the  other  hand,  that  no  proper  exertion  ought 
to  be  omitted  to  increase  the  usefulness  and  secure  the  respecta- 
bility of  the  Order,  by  the  introduction  of  such  members  as  will 
become  a  credit  to  our  society,  and  by  the  careful  instruction 
and  promotion  of  those  who  may  prove  themselves  worthy  of  a 
name  and  place  amongst  us.  On  yourselves  depends  principally 
the  success  of  your  infant  lodge.  Regular  attendance  at  its  meet- 
ings, and  a  personal  deportment  becoming  our  laudable  profes- 
sion, will  not  fail  to  secure  for  each  of  you  a  favorable  position 


l:iiii 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  53 

among  your  brothers,  and  have  the  effect  of  placing  your  lodge 
on  the  most  respectable  footing  in  numerical  strength  and  pecu- 
niary possessions.  By  such  a  course,  individually  as  members, 
you  will  enable  your  lodge  to  elevate  your  most  useful  brothers, 
and,  in  due  time,  to  transfer  their  services  to  that  Grand  Body 
whose  more  immediate  province  it  is  to  strengthen,  increase  and 
bind  together  the  fraternity,  even  to  its  most  distant  branches; 
to  contrive,  deliberate  on,  arid  execute  plans  of  extensive  benevo- 
lence and  operative  charity,  and  to  cause  fragrant  incense  to 
rise  from  the  altar  of  Benevolence  to  cheer  the  dreary  moments  of 
suffering  humanity;  that  the  bereaved  and  distressed  widow 
and  the  orphan  may  thereby  be  relieved ;  whilst  the  brother  who 
by  his  mite  has  contributed  to  the  happy  result,  can  return  to 
his  home  with  the  soothing  reflection  that  he  has  done  his  duty 
as  a  man,  and  has  another  claim  to  the  name  of  an  Odd  Fellow. 
It  is  difficult  to  enjoy  prosperity  without  going  into  excess  in 
enjoyments.  Odd  Fellowship  surmounts  the  difficulty  by  its  pro- 
visions for  disposing  out  of  our  abundance  a  portion  for  those 
who  may  need  the  overplus.  It  is  also  difficult  to  stand  firmly 
under  the  iron  pressure  of  adversity.  But  Odd  Fellowship  light- 
ens that  evil,  and  alleviates  its  crushing  force  on  those  in  trouble, 
by  attending  to  the  sick,  by  speaking  words  of  consolation  to  the 
dying,  and  by  performing  faithfully  the  last  duties  the  living  owe 
to  the  dead.  You,  Most  Noble  Grand,  Vice  Grand,  Officers  and 
Brothers,  commence  your  career  under  favorable  circumstances. 
You  have  before  you,  as  glorious  exemplars,  the  Washington  and 
Franklin  Lodges,  which  have  weathered  every  storm  and  over- 
come every  difficulty  that  obstructed  their  course ;  and  they  will 
rejoice  to  see  Columbia  Lodge,  JSro.  3,  in  the  enjoyment  of  a  pros- 
perity e<jiial  to  their  own,  while  united  to  them  as  a  third  link  in 
the  Odd  Fellowship  of  Maryland,  of  the  United  States,  and  of 
the  world." 

It  seems  that  all  this  elaboration  was  to  instruct  in  the  mode 
to  be  adopted,  to  set  a  lodge  of  the  period  at  work  successfully. 

COLVIN'S  STONE  TAVERN. 

The  place  selected  for  the  meetings  of  the  new  lodge  was  at 
"The  Stone  Tavern,'1  at  the  northeast  corner  of  Bridge  (Gay) 
and  Front  Streets,  where  humble  accommodations  were  provided 
by  Mr.  Sheppard,  the  landlord,  at  the  moderate  rental  of  twenty- 


54  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

five  dollars  per  annum.  The  most  notable  incident  which  came 
of  this  lodge  extension,  was  the  revival  of  the  theory  of  reform 
on  the  subject  of  liquor.  One  of  the  conditions  on  which  the 
apartment  had  been  hired,  provided  that  no  refreshment  of  any 
kind,  except  water,  should  be  furnished  either  in  the  lodge  or 
anteroom.  The  low  rate  of  rent,  however,  clearly  indicates 
that  Mr.  Sheppard  thought  he  had  good  reason  to  believe  that 
what  he  might  lose  above  stairs  would  be  amply  compensated  for 
at  the  bar  below.  But  the  event  did  not  justify  his  conclusion, 
for  the  members  avoided  the  liquor  with  the  utmost  fidelity,  and 
drove  the  landlord  to  despair.  He  found  he  had  made  a  bad 
bargain,  and  in  the  short  space  of  three  months  he  gave 
them  formal  notice  to  quit.  This  unexpected  turn  of  affairs 
made  it  necessary  for  the  members  to  seek  another  place  where 
they  would  be  more  likely  to  find  greater  security. 


From  the  very  beginning,  G.  M.  Wildey  had  manifested  the 
deepest  interest  in  all  that  concerned  the  new  enterprise.  The 
lodge  had  already  recognized  his  devotion  by  voting  him  a  medal 
on  January  18,  1824,  and  it  was  natural  that  the  brothers  should 
seek  him  for  advice  in  the  emergency.  He  at  once  made  the 
cause  his  own,  and,  just  as  two  years  before  he  had  succored 
Washington  Lodge  when  suddenly  deprived  of  its  place  of 
meeting,  he  now  tendered  to  them  the  use  of  rooms  in  the  house 
he  then  occupied  at  the  corner  of  Bridge  (Gay)  and  Jones  (Front) 
Streets.  After  reflection,  the  lodge  proposed  to  hire  the  rooms, 
and  fit  them  up  for  its  use  and  occupation.  Wildey  at  once 
acceded  to  the  offer,  and  knowing  the  fiscal  inability  of  the  lodge, 
tendered  the  loan  of  funds  necessary  for  putting  the  premises  in 
order.  The  money  was  accepted  and  the  wrork  promptly  com- 
pleted, and  on  the  21st  of  April,  1824,  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  3, 
was  permanently  located  at  Brother  Wildey 's  house,  at  a  rent  of 
sixty  dollars  per  annum.  Here  the  lodge  remained  until  joined 
by  the  other  two  lodges,  and  this  was  the  central  point  where  all 
assembled  until  they  removed  to  the  new  hall  in  Gay  Street  on 
April  26,  1831.  Thus  we  have  traced  the  Order  in  Maryland  to 
Wildey's  house,  where  it  finds  a  shelter  from  the  world  ;  and  we 
can  imagine  the  paternal  pride  which  was  constantly  gratified  by 
the  presence  of  this  loving  band  of  grateful  children.  What 


WASHINGTON    LODGE.  55 

house  but  that  of  the  COMMON  FATHER  has  room  for  the  teeming 
thousands  of  their  equally  grateful  posterity  ? 

A    MEETING   OF    WASHINGTON    LODGE    IN    1821. 

We  shall  close  this  chapter  with  a  scene  not  drawn  from  the  un- 
real, but  exhibited  in  life-like  colors  in  the  graphic  narrative  of  a 
witness  whose  evidence  will  assure  us  that  such  things  have  been. 
Past  Grand  Sire  Kennedy  leaves  this  most  interesting  fragment : 

"  During  the  summer  of  1821,  on  a  very  warm  evening,  the 
writer,  in  company  with  a  friend,  undertook  a  ramble  through 
the  streets  of  Baltimore ;  those  less  frequented  by  night  were 
selected.  Passing  along  the  lower  part  of  Frederick  Street,  their 
attention  was  drawn  to  a  crowd  in  front  of  a  public-house.  Its 
sign  was  swinging  from  a  projecting  beam,  upon  each  side  of 
which  were  painted  two  extremely  ugly  faces,  with  the  legend  above 
them — *  WE  THREE  LOGGERHEADS  BE.'  In  answer  to  an  inquiry, 
we  were  informed  that  they  were  listening  to  the  singing  at  the 
Loggerheads.  On  looking  closer,  we  found  a  large  room  in  the 
second  story ;  it  was  well  lighted,  and  pretty  well  filled  with  people. 
At  the  moment  a  noisy  commotion  seemed  to  be  prevailing ;  but 
by  three  vigorous  blows  of  a  mallet,  an  orderly  silence  was  pro- 
duced. There  were  no  blinds  to  either  of  the  three  windows, 
and  the  sash  was  arranged  for  the  freest  circulation ;  that  is,  both 
of  air  and  sound.  All  at  once  the  silence  wTas  broken ;  a  deep 
tenor  voice  rendered  '  Old  King  Cole '  with  all  the  original  varia- 
tions ;  the  vocal  imitations  of  the  four-and-twenty  fiddlers,  fifers, 
drummers,  &c.,  were  loudly  given,  amid  thunders  of  applause. 
This  was  followed  by  a  soliloquy  from  Richard  III,  in  imitation 
of  a  great  actor  of  that  day.  This  was  well  received.  There 
was  then  a  hubbub  of  internal  commotion,  which  lasted  until 
stopped  again  by  the  loud-sounding  mallet.  A  sweet,  delicate 
voice  then  executed  i  The  Poor  Little  Sweep.'  This  was  ren- 
dered with  a  pathos  that  not  only  had  the  loud  applause  of  the 
inside  audience,  but  also  of  the  delighted  listeners  on  the  outside. 
At  this  stage,  my  friend  and  myself  concluded  to  obtain  a  more 
favorable  position  for  the  enjoyment  of  the  treat.  Accordingly, 
we  entered  the  bar-room  and  inquired,  '  What  is  the  charge  to  the 
free  and  easy  ? '  The  barkeeper  indignantly  replied,  '  There  is  no 
free  and  heasy  here,  it's  the  Hodd  Fellows'  lodge  that  is  above.' 
To  our  remark  that  it  was  all  the  same,  the  Bardolph  of  the  bar 


56  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

informed  us  that  we  knew  '  nothing  about  it.'  This  was  literally 
true,  for  we  had  never  heard  of  such  a  society  before.  To  our 
further  inquiry,  '  Well,  how  are  we  to  get  in?'  we  were  informed 
that  we  must  be  first  proposed,  and  if  of  good  moral  character, 
might  be  admitted  at  some  future  meeting.  After  this  rebuke  we 
returned  to  the  open  street,  drank  in  several  other  Choice  pieces- 
of  music,  and  then,  very  much  delighted,  returned  to  our  homes. 
This  was  my  first  introduction  to  Odd  Fellowship;  this  my  first 
knowledge  of  Washington  Lodge,  the  Mother  of  the  Order  in 
America." 

This  lodge  still  retains  its  vitality,  and  does  its  first  works 
with  energy  and  success.  Its  record  for  1877  gives  152  con- 
tributing members,  the  number  drawing  dues  for  sickness  24 ; 
deaths  6.  It  has  paid  during  the  year  $245  to  the  Grand  Lodge ; 
funeral  benefits  $500 ;  donations  $62,  and  to  sick  brothers  $56L 
The  funeral  expenses  were  $180,  and  the  total  receipts  $1642. 
Thus  it  will  appear  that  Wildey's  original  lodge  has  kept  its 
place  with  unflinching  integrity :  it  has  never  been  suspended, 
and  has  always  answered  the  roll-call  in  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Maryland. 


JOHN  BOYD. 


CHAPTER  III. 

JOHN    BOYD. 

We  have  had  occasion  to  speak  of  a  class  of  men  peculiar  to 
Odd  Fellowship  —  Britons  of  the  middle  rank,  full  of  national 
peculiarities  and  wedded  to  narrow  prejudices.  But  they  had 
also  rugged  virtues,  were  honest,  capable  and  persevering,  and 
always  commanded  a  certain  respect  and  confidence.  Of  such 
were  the  men  who  came  to  us  with  fraternity,  arid  who  were 
the  early  fathers  of  the  Order  in  America.  When  left  to  them- 
selves, these  mystic  brethren  knew  nothing  beyond  the  lessons 
they  had  learned  at  home.  These  were  few,  but  they  were  good 
and  fruitful.  Brotherly  kindness  and  conviviality  were  to  them 
sacred  and  indissoluble.  If  they  worshipped  after  the  manner 
of  the  ancients,  it  was  to  do  honor  to  Harpocrates  for  his  silence, 
and  to  Bacchus  for  the  pleasures  of  the  foaming  cup.  But  they 
knew  nothing  of  mythology.  Theirs  was  the  lot  of  poverty  and 
labor,  and  the  lodge  a  refuge  from  the  cold  neglect  which  belonged 
to  a  humble  station.  That  circle  could  not  be  elevated  whose 
centre  was  a  public-house,  and  its  oracle  the  rubicund  and  jolly 
host.  Nor  could  one  look  for  much  among  illiterate  mechanics 
and  laborers,  stereotyped  by  the  English  system  into  a  stolid  mass 
which  could  hardly  ferment  and  rise  under  laws  made  for 
their  superiors.  Of  the  original  colleagues  of  Wildey  in  Wash- 
ington Lodge,  but  one  remained  in  the  Order  until  after  the 
decade.  John  Boyd  is  a  name  identified  with  early  Odd  Fellow- 
ship in  all  its  stages,  until  it  passed  into  the  hands  of  Wildey's 
successors.  This  canny,  sober  and  grave  Scotchman  was  for 
many  years  a  sort  of  fixture.  He  was  seldom  absent  from  the 
counsels  of  the  pioneers,  and  his  sharp  countenance  and  high 
cheekbones,  lighted  up  by  gray  eyes  full  of  penetration,  were 
indicative  of  the  sagacity  for  which  he  was  noted.  He  was 
born  in  the  year  1787,  in  Lanarkshire,  Scotland,  and  came  to  this 
country  as  an  ordinary  laborer  in  the  year  1817.  His  first  place 
of  residence  was  in  Lovely  Lane,  situated  very  near  the  centre 

(57) 


58  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

of  Baltimore.  He  was  at  that  time  a  sawyer  of  veneering  for 
cabinetware.  Soon  afterwards  lie  turned  in  another  Direction, 
and  the  business  was  dropped.  lie  then  formed  a  partnership 
with  Duncan  McCormick  to  conduct  an  eating  and  drinking 
house.  This  arrangement  did  not  long  continue;  McCormick 
lost  his  health  and  retired ;  this  was  the  brother  who  was  after- 
wards admitted  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  the  United 
States  on  the  22d  of  February,  1822.  Boyd  then  set  up  for 
himself.  He  hired  a  cellar  on  South  near  Baltimore  Street,  and 
fitted  it  up  for  the  sale  of  oysters  and  liquors.  This  was  the 
commencement  of  a  prosperous  career.  He  added  to  this  busi- 
ness that  of  the  bottling  of  cider,  ale  and  porter,  which  soon 
brought  a  large  and  lucrative  patronage.  It  was  during  these 
transactions  that  he  met  the  originators  of  Odd  Fellowship  in 
Maryland.  The  date  of  his  entering  Washington  Lodge  is  not 
known,  but  it  was  in  1819,  and  soon  after  the  society  was  insti- 
tuted. It  is  not  certain  whether  he  entered  by  card  or  initiation, 
some  supposing  him  before  that  time  an  English  brother.  At  all 
events  he  was  known  in  the  lodge  as  Number  19,  that  being  the 
number  which  he  formed  by  his  accession  to  the  body ;  for,  in 
those  times,  the  successive  admissions  were  numbered  according 
to  seniority.  Nineteen  was  certainly  a  place  not  far  from  the 
beginning.  He  must  have  been  from  the  first  a  standard 
member.  At  all  events  we  find  him  on  the  Committee  of  Past 
Grands,  and  acting  with  that  body  on  the  7th  of  February,  1821, 
when  they  solicited  the  English  Charter  from  Washington  Lodge. 
He  was  at  that  preliminary  meeting  elected  both  Grand  Treas- 
urer and  Grand  Guardian,  and  was  installed  into  both  offices  on 
the  22d  of  February,  when  the  first  Grand  Body  was  formed. 
From  this  time  we  will  find  him  a  part  of  the  official  bureau, 
until  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  the  United  States  was 
dissolved.  Whatever  other  changes  were  made,  Boyd  remained. 
He  was  constantly  made  Guardian  without  any  opposition.  As 
Treasurer  he  was  an  indispensable  adjunct,  In  those  days  of 
lax  performance  of  such  duty  he  was  a  model  officer.  His 
quarterly  reports  were  the  only  business  transacted  strictly  in 
due  time  and  with  unfailing  regularity.  He  was  one  of  the 
original  five  who  first  received  the  Golden  Rule  Degree.  In 
connection  with  Wildey  and  Entwisle,  he  reported  the  first  con- 
stitution which  was  adopted.  On  the  22d  of  February,  1822, 


JOHN    BOYD.  59 

the  minutes  state  a  singular  fact.  They  say :  "  G.  Guardian 
Boyd  presented  two-eighths  of  tickets  of  the  Washington  Monu- 
ment Lottery,  purchased  for  the  use  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  The 
numbers  were  12594  and  15."  This  tallies  with  a  tradition  that 
lie  had  sometimes  a  penchant  for  lotteries.  It  is  said  that  he  drew 
a  prize  of  $2000,  and  afterwards  refused  to  buy  tickets.  This 
sum  was  invested  in  stocks,  and  after  some  years  they  rose  to  the 
value  of  $15,000.  Be  that  as  it  may,  this  well-intended  benefac- 
tion wras  not  fortunate,  and  Odd  Fellowship  drew  no  prize  in 
that  wheel  of  fortune.  That  lie  had  education  may  be  inferred 
from  the  fact  that  he  was  made  chairman  of  the  committee  to 
write  to  Boston  in  1S23  when  that  State  was  drifting  into 
anarchy.  He  was  a  party  to  every  movement  up  to  the  eventful 
meeting  which  dissolved  the  body,  and  transferred  Odd  Fellow- 
ship to  the  separate  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  At  the 
preliminary  meeting  he  acted  as  Proxy  Representative  for  Penn- 
sylvania. This  honorable  position  was  assigned  him  in  1825,  '6 
and  '7,  when  he  gave  way  to  Representative  Pearce,  who  had 
been  elected  to  the  place.  He  appears  again  as  Proxy  Repre- 
sentative for  Delaware  in  1831,  when  he  drops  from  that  record. 
At  the  separation  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  when  it 
took  a  charter  from  the  separate  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United 
States,  Boyd  was  nominated  for  Grand  Master,  but  declined.  If 
he  had  stood  the  ballot  his  election  was  certain,  but  he  was  firm  in 
his  refusal.  Such  offices  he  had  resolved  never  to  occupy.  The 
sturdy  Scotchman  was  averse  to  all  meretricious  distinction  and 
display.  He  loved  the  Order,  and  delighted  in  its  work ;  but 
his  ideas  of  Odd  Fellowship  were  mainly  confined  to  its  finances, 
and  the  benefits  which  flowed  from  a  full  treasury.  A  good  bus- 
iness man,  he  aimed  at  order  and  lodge  system  as  the  true  basis 
of  prosperity.  In  those  days  of  poverty  he  was  the  honest  guar- 
dian of  the  funds — the  sheet-anchor  of  all  material  prosperity. 
He  did  not,  on  occasions,  refuse  to  make  advances ;  and  in  his 
hands  the  indigence  of  the  Order  was  made  respectable,  by  the 
attention  he  bestowed  upon  every  fiscal  arrangement.  But  he  was 
only  willing  to  be  treasurer  whilst  his  services  were  indispensable. 
He  also  served  as  Grand  Guardian  because  he  was  thus  useful, 
without  being  disturbed  with  ambitious  projects.  He  was,  in 
one  respect,  an  ancient  Odd  Fellow,  who  would  not  be  changed. 
In  the  old  system  of  independent  lodges,  the  highest  rank  was 


60  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

that  of  Past  Grand.  He  had  won  the  title,  and  his  aspirations 
were  satisfied.  In  fact,  lie  looked  npon  the  new  titles  as  merely 
ornamental.  A  Past  Grand  was,  in  his  eyes,  a  king  of  men,  and 
could  not  therefore  rise  any  higher.  He  clung  to  the  title  and 
the  rights  of  that  place  with  a  peculiar  tenacity.  Thus  he  was 
known  as  THE  PAST  GRAND. 

In  the  business  transacted  he  was  always  prominent.  In  1826 
he  was  on  the  committees  to  revise  and  have  the  charge  books 
printed,  to  procure  a  room  for  the  meetings  of  the  subordinate 
lodges,  and  to  regulate' the  payment  of  dues.  He  was  the  author 
of  the  first  resolution  fixing  the  order  of  taking  the  degrees,  and 
of  the  letter  to  Pennsylvania  explaining  the  use  of  the  sign  and 
grip.  He  also  aided  in  procuring  the  copper-plate  for  printing 
certificates.  He  was  one  of  those  to  whom  was  referred  the  con- 
stitution which  was  approved,  and  is  known  as  the  amended  con- 
stitution of  1829.  He,  with  Marley  and  Mathiot,  drafted  the 
form  of  visiting  card  adopted.  Above  all,  he  wras  a  useful  mem- 
ber of  the  committee  which  designed  and  built  the  Odd  Fellows1 
Hall  on  Gay  Street.  In  that  he  took  20  shares  of  stock.  In 
1831  he  consented  to  serve  as  Grand  Treasurer,  and  was  duly 
elected.  This  was  his  last  office  in  the  Order.  Nothing  but  the 
exigency  of  building  and  paying  for  the  new  hall  could  have  in- 
duced him  to  serve.  Having  adjusted  the  matter  successfully, 
he,  in  due  time,  finally  resigned.  About  this  time  began  the 
controversy  which  arose  from  the  admission  of  Scarlet  Members 
into  the  Grand  Lodge,  which  will  be  detailed  in  the  biography 
of  Marley.  He  was  decidedly  in  favor  of  the  measure,  and  vigor- 
ously supported  it.  There  were  various  reasons  which  led  others 
to  vote  for  it,  but  Boyd  was  actuated  by  principle.  It  began  by 
a  petition  from  the  subordinates  for  "  a  fair  representation  in  the 
Grand  Lodge."  This  meant  that  members  of  the  latter  body 
should  not  be  required  to  be  Past  Grands.  Such  a  doctrine  com- 
mended itself  to  Boyd  as  eminently  proper.  Under  the  indivi- 
dual and  independent  lodge  system,  each  lodge  was  both  a  subor- 
dinate and  Grand  Lodge.  It  was  created  by  a  single  lodge,  and 
created  other  lodges  in  its  turn.  It  was  generally  both  a  subor- 
dinate and  Grand  Lodge ;  a  subordinate,  as  being  limited  by  its 
charter  and  by  ancient  usage,  and  a  Grand  Lodge  to  grant  char- 
ters. It  is  true  that  Past  Grands  were  superior  to  the  other  mem- 
bers, but  that  was  only  in  degree.  They  all  met  together  for  lodge 


JOHN    BOYD.  61 

"business.  The  committee  of  Past  Grands  indeed  met  separately, 
"but  not  to  legislate.  That  committee  could  only  advise.  Its 
recommendations  could  be  heeded  or  rejected,  at  pleasure.  All 
the  power  was  in  the  body  of  the  membership,  and  the  form  of 
government  might  be  called  democratic.  The  theory  of  the  new 
men  was,  to  the  contrary,  one  of  a  separate  Grand  Lodge,  confined 
to  Past  Grands  alone.  The  lodges  could  only  send  their  Past 
Grands  to  that  body,  and  thus  select  their  representatives  from 
that  superior  class  alone.  To  this,  ancient  usage  could  not  give 
its  assent,  and  any  measure  which  secured  personal  representa- 
tion to  members  of  the  subordinate  lodge,  had  the  charm  of  use 
and  tradition  to  assist  it.  Past  Grand  Boyd  broke  his  usual 
silence  to  advocate  the  proposition.  Finding  that  he  could  not 
effect  the  purpose  by  obtaining  a  vote  sufficient  to  amend  the 
constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  he  voted  with  the  majority  to 
admit  Scarlet  Degree  members  to  that  body.  This  was  for  a 
time  successful,  until,  as  related  elsewhere,  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
the  United  States  destroyed  this  singular  anomaly  by  appropriate 
legislation. 

When  the  Gay  Street  Hall  was  completed  Boyd  became  one  of 
the  board  of  managers.  In  another  place  whe  have  related  the  story 
of  the  spurious  lodge  which  grew  out  of  the  admission  to  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Maryland  of  Scarlet  Degree  members.  In  January, 
1833,  Boyd,  with  four  others,  one  of  whom  was  Past  Grand  Ken- 
nedy, afterwards  Grand  Sire,  was  appointed  to  reconcile  the  diffi- 
culty. This  was  not  accomplished.  A  general  law  was  immedi- 
ately passed,  under  which  the  offending  members  were  expelled, 
and  Boyd  voted  heartily  with  the  majority.  The  vote  stood  59 
ayes  to  31  nays.  In  1834  the  members  expelled,  with  one  accord, 
sought  to  return  to  the  fold.  Some  were  received  back,  but  the 
majority  were  rejected;  Boyd  always  voting  to  receive  them. 
This  unfavorable  action  seems  to  have  affected  the  Past  Grand 
deeply.  He  was  among  new  men,  who  were  fast  forgetting  his 
honorable  services,  and  he  found  his  influence  on  the  decline. 
His  private  business  had  pressing  claims  upon  him,  and  he  turned 
from  the  lodges  to  the  congenial  business  of  making  money.  In 
fact  there  was  nothing  but  routine  work  to  be  done  in  the  Order ; 
it  was  fully  established,  so  that  he  could  leave  it  to  younger  men. 
He  had  been  gradually  enlarging  his  ventures.  The  courthouse 
in  Baltimore  is  built  on  a  steep  declivity,  hence,  on  the  street 


62  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

at  its  foot  there  was  a  large  space  left  under  the  square  of  the 
"building.  This  was  fitted  up  as  a  very  large  cellar.  He  rented 
and  used  it  for  the  bottling  business  on  a  large  scale.  His  sales 
brought  him  excellent  profits.  He  was  now  possessed  of  a  large 
capital.  He  accordingly  purchased  the  well-known  Gilmor  resi- 
dence and  an  adjoining  property  on  South  Gay  Street.  This  he  im- 
proved greatly.  Here  were  his  offices,  workshops  and  storerooms 
during  the  remainder  of  his  life.  But  this  required  only  part  of  his 
capital.  He  built  a  malt-house  at  the  foot  of  Eutaw  Street,  and  con- 
ducted the  business  of  malting.  Everything  prospered  with  him, 
and  he  became  wealthy.  "When  the  Front  Street  Theatre  was 
built  he  became  one  of  the  stockholders.  In  course  of  time  he 
bought  a  country-seat  in  the  vicinity  of  the  city,  where  he  lived 
in  ease  and  plenty,  and  where  his  descendants  now  reside.  He- 
was  always  highly  esteemed  in  business  and  social  circles.  As 
a  Scotchman,  he  was  proud  of  his  nationality.  He  was  for  a  long 
time  president  and  vice-president  of  the  Burns  Club  of  Baltimore, 
and  took  an  active  part  in  its  transactions.  He  was  of  those 
whose  "  word  was  as  good  as  his  money."  Although  he  ceased 
to  attend  the  Grand  Lodge,  he  never  neglected  Washington 
Lodge,  No.  1.  He  was  there  held  in  profound  respect,  as  one  of 
the  venerated  Fathers.  His  sagacity  and  prudence  were  the  theme 
of  eulogy.  In  all  financial  affairs  lie  was  an  oracle.  Nor  was  he 
unmindful  of  the  courtesies  of  life.  Among  his  intimates  he  was 
cordial  and  full  of  interest.  He  had  been  a  close  observer,  and 
was  well  versed  in  men  and  affairs.  When  friendship  called  he 
was  always  ready  to  advise  and  help,  and  to  a  tried  brother  was 
true  as  steel.  Nor  did  his  caution,  industry  and  money-mak- 
ing cause  him  to  neglect  his  duty  to  humanity.  In  a  good  cause 
he  was  liberal,  and  on  proper  occasions  led  the  way  to  administer 
benevolence.  As  a  prudent  citizen,  whose  integrity  was  beyond 
question,  he  was  by  every  one  respected. 

On  great  occasions  in  Odd  Fellowship,  Boyd  felt  a  return  of  his 
old  interest  in  the  cause.  His  last  appearance  in  public  was  on 
the  occasion  of  the  death  of  his  great  leader.  He  was  present 
at  the  Wildey  eulogy  by  Ttidgely,  and  with  deep  emotion  grasped 
the  orator  with  both  hands  in  a  warm  embrace  of  mingled  grief 
and  satisfaction ;  grief  at  his  loss,  delight  to  find  his  countryman 
upon  a  pinnacle  of  world-wide  fame.  Well  might  he  be  proud 
at  the  rehearsal  of  that  obscure  history  to  such  an  audience  !  —  to 


JOHN    BOYD.  63 

hear  the  old,  half-forgotten  names  uttered  by  so  many  voices, 
calling  them  into  new  life ;  to  have  spread  before  him  the  scenes 
of  his  early  manhood  ;  to  awake  to  the  fact  that  he  had  been  a 
contemporary  of  historical  men,  and  had  helped  them  to  make 
history  !  How  thrilling  was  the  contrast  of  the  vast  theatre  with 
the  "Seven  Stars"  and  the  "Three  Loggerheads"!  The  old 
Treasurer  and  Guardian  of  the  infant  Grand  Lodge  of  but  five 
members,  saw  himself  surrounded  by  a  Supreme  Grand  Lodge 
from  all  parts  of  the  continent,  a  picked  senate  from  a  vast  con- 
stituency. His  face  was  radiant  with  happiness,  and  his  heart 
solaced  with  a  consciousness  that  virtue  was  at  length  rewarded. 
He  never  dropped  from  the  roll  of  Washington  Lodge  until  he 
left  the  world.  As  the  old  members  disappeared,  he  stood  alone 
as  the  senior  of  the  lodge.  He  loved  among  his  intimates  to 
live  over  the  early  days.  On  snch  occasions  he  forgot  his  usual 
reticence,  and  rehearsed  with  raised  voice  and  sparkling  eye  the 
stories  of  the  early  conflicts.  In  some  points  he  stood  among 
the  early  laborers  with  Welch.  Like  him,  he  was  sober,  prudent, 
and  eminently  respectable.  His  energy  and  perseverance  were 
very  marked.  As  a  citizen,  he  was  a  man  of  substance  and  of 
weight.  His  long  connection  with  successful  business  had  made 
him  well-known  in  such  circles,  and  he  was  held  up  as  an  example 
to  young  and  rising  men. 

As  age  grew  upon  him,  Boyd  gradually  retired  from  active  life 
into  the  bosom  of  his  family.  At  London  Hill,  his  fine  country 
seat,  he  sat  down  in  great  peace  to  await  the  end.  His  children 
had  grown  up  around  him  in  honor,  and  cheered  his  declining 
years.  His  daughters  connected  themselves  with  men  of  position, 
and  his  grandchildren  were  promising.  His  grandsons,  John 
Boyd  and  John  Boyd  Kicketts,  under  the  firm  of  Boyd  &  Rick- 
etts,  succeeded  to  his  business,  which  they  still  conduct  in  a  man- 
ner honorable  to  themselves  and  their  grandfather.  At  length 
frail  nature  could  bear  up  no  longer,  and  on  the  30th  day  of 
August,  1871,  in  the  bosom  of  his  family,  he  peacefully  sank  to 
rest.  He  was  at  that  time  in  his  84th  year,  and  the  oldest  living 
Odd  Fellow  in  the  United  States— the  last  of  the  men  of  1819! 
He  lies  in  the  same  cemetery  with  Wildey,  Marley  and  Mathiot, 
arid  a  fine  monument  rises  over  his  grave.  Peace  to  his  ashes !  But 
a  nobler  monument  to  his  memory  appears  in  these  pages,  where 
he  will  be  found  linked  with  those  who  were  human  benefactors ; 


(?!  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

one  of  that  famous  band  whom  the  world  will  cherish  as  men 
whose  names  can  never  be  forgotten. 

Boyd's  last  day  of  service  in  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States 
was  memorable  in  his  history.  When  all  the  business  of  the  annual 
session  was  completed,  there  was  a  long  pause  before  the  final 
adjournment.  The  vote  had  just  been  taken  that  made  him  a 
charter  member  of  the  first  Grand  Encampment.  In  the  midst 
of  silent  expectation,  Hep.  Birkey  arose  in  behalf  of  the  great 
State  of  Pennsylvania.  His  preface  consisted  of  an  able  and  elo- 
quent address,  full  of  personal  and  official  compliments  to  the 
retiring  Representative.  He  then  advanced  to  Past  Grand  Boyd, 
and  presented  him  a  beautiful  memento  of  esteem.  It  was  a 
medal,  described  as  a  circular  tablet  of  silver,  neatly  enclosed  in 
a  frame  of  the  same  metal,  having  engraved  on  one  side  three 
columns,  terminating  respectively  in  a  hand,  a  heart  and  a  flame, 
and  based  on  an  altar  whose  panels  or  tablets  wrere  decorated 
with  emblems  of  the  Order ;  the  whole  surmounted  with  an  all- 
seeing  eye,  and  encircled  with  the  motto  of  the  Order,  "Amicitia, 
Amor  et  Yeritas."  On  the  opposite  side  is  engraved  the  follow- 
ing inscription :  "Presented,  September  5th,  1831,  by  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  of  the  I.  O.  of  O.  F.,  to  P.  G.  John  Boyd, 
late  Proxy  of  this  Grand  Lodge  in  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United 
States,  as  a  testimony  of  respect  and  regard  for  his  unremitted 
attention  to  the  interest  of  the  Order  in  this  State." 


CHAPTER    IV. 

THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MARYLAND    AND    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES, 
FROM    ITS  ORGANIZATION,  IN  1821,  TO  ITS  DISSOLUTION,  IN  1825. 

The  organization  of  that  duplex  body,  "  The  Grand  Lodge  of 
Maryland  and  of  the  United  States,"  was  consummated  on  the 
22d  of  February,  1821,  when  the  following  officers  were  installed : 
Thomas  Wildey,  Grand  Master ;  John  P.  Entwisle,  Deputy 
Grand  Master ;  William  S.  Couth,  Grand  Warden ;  John  Welch, 
Grand  Secretary,  and  John  Boyd,  Grand  Guardian.  Past  Grand 
Larkam  was  admitted,  and  the  Golden  Rule  degree  was  conferred 
on  five  Past  Grands.  A  dispensation  was  immediately  presented 
to  "Washington  Lodge,  'No.  1,  as  its  first  subordinate,  in  acknow- 
ledgment of  the  Grand  Warrant  ceded  by  that  lodge.  The 
support  of  the  Grand  Lodge  was  then  provided  for  by  the 
adoption  of  the  following:  "Resolved,  That  ten  percentnm 
be  paid  by  the  subordinate  lodges  on  their  receipts,  for  the 
support  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  That  each  member  pay  to  the 
Grand  Lodge  seventy-five  cents  for  the  Golden  Rule  degree. 
That  thirty  dollars  be  charged  for  dispensations  for  opening 
lodges,  viz :  Ten  dollars  for  the  dispensation,  ten  dollars  for 
the  White,  Blue  and  Scarlet  degrees  and  book  of  charges ;  and 
ten  dollars  for  the  intermediate  degrees,  called  the  Covenant 
and  Remembrance."  Annual  sessions  were  to  be  held  on  the 
22d  day  of  February,  and  quarterly  sessions  on  the  22d  days  of 
May,  August  and  November.  The  meeting  in  May  was  infor- 
mally adjourned,  but  the  August  session  assembled  in  form ;  all 
the  Grand  Officers  were  present ;  the  office  of  Grand  Conductor 
was  created,  and  the  place  filled  by  the  appointment  of  P.  G. 
William  Larkam.  Franklin  Lodge,  which  had  been  called  into 

o     " 

existence  by  hostility  to  Washington  Lodge,  appeared  as  a  peti- 
tioner for  a  warrant  as  a  subordinate.  The  petition  was  granted, 
and  a  warrant  issued  under  the  title  of  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2, 
dated  September  5th,  1821,  which  day  was  selected  as  the  one 
when  the  lodge  should  become  lawful.  A  committee,  consisting 
5  (65) 


66  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

of  G.  M.  Wildey,  D.  G.  M.  Entwisle,  and  G.  W.  Couth,  were 
appointed  to  draft  a  form  for  dispensations,  and  to  prepare  books, 
&c.,  and  Entwisle,  Bojd  and  Larkam  were  directed  to  prepare  a 
constitution.  For  the  latter  there  was  no  precedent,  for  before 
that  time  all  such  bodies,  under  whatever  name,  exercised  an 
undefined  authority,  with  no  restraint  but  such  as  "  ancient 
usage "  imposed.  But  they  had  already  learned  the  value  of 
written  law  to  reduce  obligation  and  authority  to  form,  and  make 
rights  and  duties  fixed  and  tangible. 

At  the  November  session,  1821,  Deputy  Grand  Master 
Entwisle  reported  the  instrument,  which  contained  twenty  pro- 
positions ;  it  was  unanimously  adopted.  He  also  reported  several 
secret  articles  relative  to  the  signs,  passwords,  &c.,  which  were 
also  approved.  Solomon  Winchester,  of  No.  1,  and  Ezekiel 
Wilson,  of  No.  2,  were  elected  and  admitted  to  membership,  and 
took  the  Golden  Rule  degree.  It  is  also  stated  that  Richard  P. 
Petherick  was  expelled ;  as  this  brother  was  afterwards  restored  and 
became  a  valuable  member,  it  is  but  just  to  state  that  this  action 
was  irregular,  and  no  doubt  was  ex  parte.  Brother  Petherick  does 
not  appear  to  have  been  a  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  was 
not  amenable  to  a  sentence  of  the  kind.  It  was  an  act  in  keeping 
with  the  rude  justice  of  those  times,  which  was  administered  in 
the  most  summary  manner ;  thus  we  know  absolutely  nothing  of 
the  offence,  if  any,  with  which  Petherick  was  charged.  It  would 
be  of  interest  to  insert  the  initial  constitution  which  was  adopted 
at  this  meeting,  but  no  copy  can  be  found.  The  next  recorded 
meeting  is  entitled  "  Grand  Committee,"  and  was  held  on  De- 
cember 19,  1821 ;  Wildey  was  absent,  and  D.  G.  M.  Entwisle 
presided.  The  committee  on  dispensations,  &c.,  reported  the 
form  for  a  subordinate  lodge  warrant,  which  was  adopted  and 
ordered  to  be  printed,  and  Entwisle,  Welch  and  Wilson  were 
selected  to  revise  the  degrees  and  charges.  The  committee  on 
dispensations,  &c.,  also  reported  having  procured  a  seal  suitable 
to  be  used  on  wax,  with  the  following  inscription  :  GB.  Lo.  OF  MD. 
AND  OF  THE  IT.  S.  1820  I.  O.  F. ;  with  a  hand  and  heart  sup- 
porting evenly  balanced  scales.  This  was  the  first  of  a  series  of 
meetings  held  by  the  Grand  Officers  and  members  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  styled  "Grand  Committee,"  which  seem  to  have  been 
special  sessions  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  At  such  meetings  the 
business  of  the  regular  sessions  was  continued  and  new  business 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MD.    AND   THE    U.    8.  67 

transacted ;  as  in  the  case  of  receiving  the  report  of  the  com- 
mittee on  dispensations,  and  in  appointing  another  to  revise  the 
work.  The  name  seems  to  have  been  borrowed  from  the  ancient 
committee  of  Past  Grands,  and  it  is  very  probable  that  it  was 
provided  for  in  the  constitution.  The  Grand  Committee  met  on 
January  1,  1822,  when  a  resolution  was  passed  forbidding  the 
conferring  of  degrees  on  any  member  except  in  his  own  lodge ; 
and  an  arrangement  was  made  to  meet  the  two  subordinate 
lodges  on  the  tenth  of  the  same  month  for  instruction,  and  to 
deliver  the  warrants  before  granted.  In  a  special  session  of  the 
9th  day  of  January  the  two  papers  were  duly  signed  and  sealed, 
and  the  colors  of  the  degrees  affixed ;  and  on  the  next  day,  being 
the  10th  of  January,  1822,  everything  being  in  readiness,  and 
the  lodges  duly  assembled,  their  respective  warrants  were  de- 
livered to  them  with  much  ceremony.  The  second  annual 
session  took  place  on  February  22d,  when,  in  addition  to  the 
officers,  the  following  Past  Grands  were  presented,  viz  :  Solomon 
Winchester  and  Ezekiel  Wilson ;  and  two  others  were  duly 
admitted,  viz :  Duncan  McCormick  and  James  Seed.  At  the 
opening,  Grand  Master  Wildey  addressed  them  briefly,  in  words 
full  of  zeal  and  wisdom. 

ADDRESS    OF    GRAND   MASTER   WILDEY. 

"7?.   W.  Deputy  Grand  Master,  Officers : 

"  On  the  present  occasion  we  meet  for  the  despatch  of  busi- 
ness. On  the  deliberations  of  our  meetings  will  depend  greatly 
the  welfare  and  eventual  success  of  our  ancient  and  honorable 
Order.  It  has  become  our  duty  to  lay  down  rules  for  the  control- 
ment  of  our  future  action ;  and  if  the  resolutions  we  ordain  shall 
be  in  unison  with  the  revealed  teachings  of  the  Great  Patron  of 
our  Order,  the  God  in  whom  we  trust,  we  shall  have  nothing  to 
fear  for  our  ultimate  welfare.  I  look  upon  you  as  the  pillars  and 
supports  of  the  Order.  On  your  precepts  and  examples  rest  our 
hopes;  for  on  them  the  reputation  of  the  Order  is  formed. 
Should  they  be  in  conformity  with  the  principles  we  profess,  you 
will  be  revered  by  all  good  Odd  Fellows ;  if  otherwise,  you  will 
disgrace  yourselves,  injure  the  Order  of  which  you  are  members, 
and  damage  the  cause  of  benevolence  in  society  at  large.  The 
obligations  you  have  undertaken  are  sufficient  to  teach  you  your 
duties  in  the  Order ;  and  each  one  of  you  is  capable  of  judging 


68  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

when  these  duties  are  properly  performed.  I  therefore  solemnly 
call  on  yon  this  day  to  give  me  your  joint  and  individual  assist- 
ance, to  aid  my  endeavors  in  the  formation  of  such  plans  as  may 
be  most  productive  of  the  great  object  we  have  in  view;  the 
building  up  of  an  institution  devoted  to  brotherly  love,  unity  and 
benevolence." 

This  address  was  ordered  to  be  spread  on  the  minutes.  The 
brevity,  beauty  and  energy  of  this  fragment  bespeak  the  hand  of 
a  master ;  the  voice  was  that  of  Wildey,  but  the  diction  and  sen- 
timent were  from  the  pen  and  brain  of  his  intellectual  mentor. 
The  reader  will  here  take  notice  that  we  do  not  present  this  and 
other  productions  as  Wildey's,  but  simply  as  indicative  of  what 
was  taught  by  him.  When  we  come  to  speak  of  Entwisle  and 
Mathiot,  justice  will  be  done ;  but  especially  to  the  former,  who 
will  be  found  to  have  given  all  its  literary  character  to  the  first 
decade.  After  the  address,  all  the  Grand  Officers  were  re-elected 
to  fill  their  offices  for  another  year.  Information  having  been 
received  that  lodges  of  the  Order  had  been  organized  at  New 
York  and  Boston,  it  was  ordered  that  letters  be  written  to  the 
brethren  in  those  cities,  and  every  effort  made  to  open  a  corres- 
pondence with  them.  The  importance  of  punctual  attendance 
having  been  considered,  a  penalty  was  imposed  on  officers  and 
members  for  any  absence  from  the  sessions  of  either  the  Grand 
Lodge  or  the  "  Grand  Committee."  Franklin  Lodge  was  reported 
as  having  very  few  present  at  their  meetings  ;  when  the  members 
of  Washington  Lodge  were  invited  to  attend  and  help  in  its  work. 
Past  Grand  Ezekiel  Wilson  was  reported  by  Franklin  Lodge,  No. 
2,  as  suspended  from  membership  during  "  one  year  and  a  day." 
At  the  May  quarterly  session,  in  addition  to  the  Grand  Officers, 
Past  Grands  McCormick,  Winchester  and  Seed  were  present, 
and  Thomas  Mitchell,  of  No.  2,  was  admitted.  The  expulsion  of 
Past  Grand  Humphreys,  "  for  attempting  to  defraud  the  treasury 
of  his  lodge,"  was  approved.  This  was  more  regular  than  in  Peth- 
erick's  case,  yet  there  is  nothing  to  be  found  showing  that  the 
expelled  member  had  ever  been  admitted  to  the  Grand  Lodge, 
nor  in  what  lodge  he  held  membership.  A  notice  was  sent 
in  from  Franklin  Lodge  of  the  expulsion  of  Past  Grand  Ezekiel 
Wilson,  who  was  then  under  sentence  of  suspension ;  this  was 
also  approved. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MD.    AND   THE    TJ.    S.  69 

At  the  August  quarterly  session,  in  addition  to  the  Grand 
Officers,  Past  Grands  McCormick,  Seed  and  Mitchell  were 
present,  and  John  Nelson,  of  No.  2,  was ,  duly  admitted.  The 
fourth  or  Golden  Rule  degree  had  been  previously  conferred 
without  charge ;  it  was  now  ordered  that  the  fee  of  one  dollar 
should  be  paid  for  the  degree.  On  this  occasion  the  death  of  the 
first  member  was  announced  in  the  person  of  Solomon  Winchester, 
of  'No.  1,  and  crape  was  ordered  to  be  worn  as  mourning  for  four 
quarters.  Past  Grand  Couth  resigned  as  Grand  Warden,  and 
Past  Grand  Thomas  Mitchell  was  elected  to  the  place ;  and 
Franklin  Lodge  applied  for  and  received  copies  of  the  inter- 
mediate degrees  of  Covenant  and  Remembrance.  The  November 
quarterly  session,  in  addition  to  the  officers,  was  attended  by 
Past  Grands  McCormick  and  Nelson ;  Past  Grand  Thomas 
Scotchburn  was  admitted  a  member.  An  opinion  seemed  to 
prevail  at  this  session  that  the  progress  of  the  Order  was  retarded 
by  the  sentiments  and  music  of  the  odes  of  the  ritual ;  Entwisle, 
Welch  and  Scotchburn  were  therefore  deputed  to  make  alterations 
in  the  words  and  music  of  the  odes  used  in  the  lodges ;  this  com- 
mittee was  instructed  to  report  at  the  next  quarterly  session,  but 
failed  to  do  so.  The  third  annual  session  convened  on  February 
22,  1823  ;  present,  the  Grand  Officers  and  Past  Grands  Seed, 
Nelson  and  Scotchburn  ;  Past  Grand  Anstice  was  duly  admitted. 
It  was  enacted  that  no  member  of  the  body  should  be  admitted 
to  its  councils  unless  he  could  prove  himself  in  the  Past  Grand's 
sign  and  password.  The  election  of  officers  now  proceeded  under 
the  following  :  "  Resolved,  that  the  Grand  Lodge  proceed  to  the 
election  of  .G.  Officers  to  serve  for  the  ensuing  two  years."  The 
original  constitution,  now  lost,  doubtless  provided  for  the  annual 
election  of  the  officers ;  the  election  that  preceded  it  was  for  the 
term  of  one  year;  and  the  election  under  it  in  1822  was  for  a 
similar  term,  although  not  so  designated.  Without  any  pretence 
of  an  amendment,  the  term  was  extended  from  one  year  to  two 
years — so  great  a  lack  of  respect  still  existed  in  regard  to  the 
binding  force  of  law  among  those  new  converts  to  written  com- 
pacts. Under  this  resolution  all  the  officers  were  re-elected ;  the 
only  change  made  was  in  elevating  G.  Sec.  Welch  to  the  place 
of  Deputy  Grand  Master,  -and  placing  D.  G.  M.  Entwisle  in  the 
more  congenial  office  of  Grand  Secretary,  where  his  peculiar 
fitness  was  speedily  displayed.  During  the  first  year  of  the 


70  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Grand  Lodge  no  detailed  fiscal  account  is  preserved ;  no  such 
office  as  Treasurer  was  provided  for,  either  in  the  Grand  or  sub- 
ordinate lodges.  Grand  Guardian  Boyd  and  G.  M.  Wildey 
usually  advanced  money  as  needed,  and  hence  acted  in  some  sort 
as  Treasurers. 

In  the  second  year  an  account  was  opened  by  a  statement  of 
the  gross  receipts  and  expenditures  of  the  year,  thus :  receipts 
from  commencement  of  Grand  Lodge  to  end  of  first  year 
$102.97 ;  expenditures  during  the  same  time  $100.37 ;  leaving  a 
balance  of  $2.60.  During  the  second  year  there  was  received 
from  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  $27.58 ;  from  Franklin  Lodge, 
No.  2,  $16.71 ;  from  members  for  admission  fees,  &c.,  $8.69 ; 
which,  with  the  balance  of  the  first  year,  $2.60,  made  a  total  of 
$55.58 ;  the  expenditure  of  this  year  was  fifty-six  cents,  which 
left  a  balance  at  the  beginning  of  the  third  year  of  $55.02.  Nothing 
is  known  of  the  income  of  the  subordinate  lodges  previous  to 
this  time  except  as  calculated  by  the  percentage  paid  in ;  by 
which  the  receipts  of  Washington  Lodge  for  the  preceding  year 
had  been  $275.80,  and  of  Franklin  Lodge  $167.10.  There  are  no 
data  by  which  the  expenses  of  either  lodge  can  be  ascertained. 
The  "  Grand  Committee  "  wras  assembled  on  April  1 3, 1 823,  with 
the  Grand  Officers  and  Past  Grands  Seed,  Nelson,  Scotchburn 
and  Anstice.  The  meeting  was  held  to  consider  a  letter  received 
by  Washington  Lodge. 

THE    BOSTON    LETTER. 

"BOSTON,  March  28,  1823. 

"To  the  Most  Noble  Grand,  Officers  and  JBrothers  of  the  Wash- 
ington Lodge,  Baltimore : 

"  Your  favor,  through  the.  hands  of  brother  Wilson,  was 
duly  received  by  Massachusetts  Lodge,  No.  1.  The  kind  and 
affectionate  manner  in  which  you  received  our  worthy  brother 
Wilson,  merits  our  warmest  acknowledgments ;  and  rest  assured 
such  praiseworthy  conduct  will  meet  with  a  reciprocation  from 
us,  as  we  are  convinced  it  will  tend  more  closely  to  cement  the 
bonds  of  Odd  Fellowship.  From  brother  Wilson's  statement 
we  are  satisfied  your  lodge  is  legally  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United  States.  We  do  hereby  acknowledge  you  as  such,  and 
beg  you  to  grant  us  a  charter  as  the  Grand  Lodge  of  this  State, 
under  the  title  of  the  Massachusetts  Lodge  of  I.  O.  F.,  No.  1 ; 
giving  us  power  to  grant  charters  to  such  lodges  as  may,  from 
time  to  time,  arise  in  this  State,  but  at  all  times  to  acknowledge 


THE    GKAND    LODGE    OF    MD.    AND    THE    U.    S.  71 

your  lodge  as  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  We  feel 
more  anxious  on  this  point,  as  we  have  just  granted  a  few  of  our 
worthy  brothers  leave  to  withdraw  from  us  and  form  a  new 
lodge,  with  no  other  intention  but  to  benefit  the  Order  by 
spreading  it  more  extensively.  We  are  without  the  lectures  and 
degrees,  and  we  wish  you  to  state  the  manner  of  application  and 
method  of  receiving  them  here.  We  shall  at  all  times  be  proud 
of  any  communication  from  you,  and  sincerely  hope  there  will 
be  a  free  correspondence  kept  up  between  the  two  lodges.  All 
expenses  incurred  in  sending  on  these  degrees,  etc.,  will  be  paid 
by  us.  Yours,  with  respect, 

"  PHILEMON  STACY,  Secretary. 

"  Approved  :  WM.  BISHOP,  M.  N.  G. 

"  P.  S.  You  will  please  send  the  lectures  and  degrees  on  as 
soon  as  possible." 

On  its  receipt  the  N.  G.  of  Washington  Lodge  presented  it  to 
G.  M.  Wildey,  who  offered  it  for  the  consideration  of  the  Grand 
Committee.  On  learning  its  contents,  all  informalities  were 
waived,  and  the  following  answer  unanimously  agreed  upon: 

"  Resolved,  that  a  Charter  be  granted  to  Massachusetts  Lodge, 
No.  1." 

"  Resolved,  that  a  dispensation  for  a  Grand  Lodge,  to  grant 
charters  to  other  lodges  in  the  State  of  Massachusetts,  be  given, 
free  of  expense,  to  the  Past  Grands  of  those  lodges,  and  to  be 
located  at  Boston." 

This  was  supplemented  by  a  resolution  deputizing  the  Grand 
Master  to  convey  the  charter  to  the  petitioners. 

The  Grand  Committee  then  ordered  the  lectures  and  degrees 
to  be  printed ;  and  D.  G.  M.  Welch  and  G.  Secretary  Entwisle 
were  directed  to  write  out  the  lectures  and  charges,  and  to  super- 
vise the  printing,  which  was  proposed  to  be  done  speedily.  A 
question  then  arose  on  amending  the  constitution,  which  was 
finally  referred  to  G.  G.  Boyd  and  Past  Grands  Scotchburn,  Nel- 
son and  Anstice.  Before  the  close  of  the  session  the  members, 
on  the  motion  of  G.  Secretary  Entwisle,  gave  formal  expression 
to  the  obligation  of  the  Order  to  G.  M.  Wildey,  "  for  his  assidu- 
ity and  perseverance  in  the  service  of  the  Grand  Lodge."  The 
Grand  Master  eloquently  responded.  The  further  proceedings 
upon  the  Boston  application  wiH  be  detailed  in  their  order.  The 
first  quarterly  session  of  1823  was  held  May  18th,  when,  in  addi- 
tion to  the  Grand  Officers,  Past  Grands  Seed,  McCormick,  Nelson 
and  Anstice  were  present.  In  opening,  the  Grand  Master  stated 


72  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

that  the  regular  day  of  meeting  being  on  Sunday,  the  22d  instant, 
he  had  called  them  together  on  another  day,  to  avoid  public  cen- 
sure. Past  Grand  William  Tong  was  admitted  a  member. 
The  charter  of  Massachusetts  Lodge,  No.  1,  was  ordered  to  be 
signed  by  the  officers  and  members,  and  the  seal  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  with  the  appropriate  colors,  affixed  thereto.  The  dis- 
pensation for  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts  was  not  in  readi- 
ness, and  in  order  to  complete  it,  a  "  Grand  Committee "  was 
ordered  to  be  held  on  the  25th.  On  that  day  the  Grand  Com- 
mittee met ;  present,  the  Grand  Officers,  except  the  Grand 
Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master  and  Grand  Conductor;  Grand 
"Warden  Mitchell  acting  as  Grand  Master;  Past  Grands  Scotch- 
burn,  Anstice,  Nelson,  Seed  and  Tong.  Past  Grand  William 
Williams,  of  No.  1,  was  admitted  to  a  seat.  The  Grand  Dispen- 
sation for  Massachusetts  having  been  engrossed,  was  signed  by 
the  Grand  Officers  and  members  present,  and  subsequently  by 
G.  M.  Wildey,  D,  G.  M.  Welch,  G.  Con.  Larkam  and  P.  G. 
McCormick. 

Previous  to  the  departure  of  Grand  Master  Wildey  on  his  mis- 
sion to  New  England,  letters  were  sent  to  the  lodge  known  to  be  in 
existence  in  Philadelphia,  and  to  one  or  more  of  the  lodges  which 
rumor  had  located  in  New  York,  apprising  them  of  his  intended 
journey,  and  asking  permission  for  Wildey  to  visit  them  and  to 
commune  with  the  brethren  when  he  was  passing  through  their 
respective  cities.  Whereupon  the  Grand  Master  left  Baltimore 
on  the  31st  May,  1823,  for  Philadelphia,  and  arrived  there  the 
next  morning.  He  found  the  brethren  in  that  city  self-instituted, 
through  the  agency  of  a  member  of  an  informal  lodge  in  New 
York,  known  at  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2.  To  this  lodge  the  bro- 
thers were  looking  for  authority  as  a  superior,  and  were  not  pre- 
pared to  join  the  movement  elsewhere.  But  Wildey's  explana- 
tion wras  well  calculated  to  arrest  their  attention.  He  informed 
them  of  his  success  in  Maryland,  and  that  he  bore  one  charter  for 
a  working  lodge  at  Boston,  and  another  to  enable  the  Past 
Grands  at  that  place  to  form  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts; 
and  that  his  constituents  were  willing,  and  even  anxious,  to  make 
similar  grants  to  the  brethren  in  Pennsylvania.  He  enforced 
these  topics  by  presenting  the  advantages  that  were  likely  to 
result  to  all  concerned,  should  his  plan  be  adopted ;  to  individual 
members,  the  knowledge  of  the  improvements  of  the  Manchester 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    MD.    AND   THE    U.    S.  73 

Unity ;  to  subordinates,  uniformity  in  the  work  and  a  system  of 
finance ;  to  the  Past  Grands,  the  dignity  of  a  State  Grand  Lodge ; 
and  to  all,  the  importance  of  a  central  parental  authority  in  a 
Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  The  brethren  were  well 
inclined  to  his  offers,  but  insisted  on  such  delay  as  would  allow 
them  to  learn  of  the  result  of  an  application  to  what  they  consid- 
ered their  mother  lodge.  Wildey  remained  another  day  with 
them,  and  on  the  morning  of  the  third  day  of  June  left  for  Xe\v 
York,  and  reached  that  city  in  time  to  be  that  night  in  session 
with  Franklin  Lodge,  at  the  house  of  Bro.  Lovett,  No.  279  Grand 
Street.  Here  he  found  two  lodges,  the  one  formally  and  the 
other  informally  constituted.  The  lawful  lodge  was  claiming 
superiority  over  all  the  self-instituted  lodges  of  the  city,  and  the 
controversy  had  just  reached  a  crisis.  Wildey  met  the  contest- 
ants and  was  made  their  umpire.  He  found  that  Columbia  Lodge 
had  received  a  valid  charter  from  a  lodge  of  the  Independent 
Order  in  England,  of  the  date  of  the  14th.  of  November,  1822, 
and  without  hesitation  decided  in  favor  of  the  legal  body.  Co- 
lumbia Lodge  at  once  agreed  to  apply  to  the  Grand  Lodge  at  Balti- 
more, to  surrender  its  charter,  and  receive  a  dispensation  of  the 
date  of  June  4th,  1823.  The  Noble  Grand  of  the  Lodge  began 
the  correspondence  with  Maryland,  as  follows : 

NEW  YORK,  June  6th,  1823. 
To  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  Maryland,  etc.,  etc. 

HONORED  BRETHREN  : — Having  been  visited  by  Grand  Master 
Wildey  on  his  tour  to  Boston,  he  was  polite  enough  to  inform  us 
of  the  method  of  forming  a  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State.  Where- 
upon we  make  application  to  you,  by  G.  M.  Wildey's  recom- 
mendation, for  a  dispensation  for  a  Grand  Lodge,  so  that  he 
will  have  it  in  his  power  to  install  our  officers  on  his  return  from 
Boston.  Your  immediate  compliance  with  this  will  give  us  a 
great  deal  of  pleasure.  We  remain  in  the  bonds  of  F.  L.  and  T. 

K.  WATTS,  M.  N.  G. 

On  its  receipt  the  Grand  Secretary,  at  a  loss  what  to  do,  con- 
sulted several  of  the  members,  and  then  replied : 

BALTIMORE,  June  9,  1823. 
R.  Watts,  M.  N.  G. 

DEAR  BROTHER: — Your  esteemed  letter  of  6th  instant  is 
received  this  morning,  and  I  have  lost  no  time  in  taking  up  the 
sense  of  a  majority  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  not  indeed  in  formal 


74  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

committee,  but  meeting  to  give  a  degree  with  several,  and  visiting 
others,  the  opinion  being  unanimous,  we  must  wait  another 
communication  from  you  before  we  can  proceed  further.  In  the 
first  place,  the  rule  of  Odd  Fellowship  has  been,  from  time  im- 
memorial, that  there  must  be  an  application  from  five  brothers 
for  a  dispensation  for  a  lodge,  and  a  Grand  Charter  can  (only)  be 
given  to  rive  Past  Grands.  2d.  In  the  application  signed  by  the 
M.  N.  G.  Watts  there  is  no  authority  by  the  lodge  he  belongs 
to,  and  there  is  no  mention  made  of  the  name  of  the  lodge.  As 
we  have  heard  of  the  Shakspeare,  No.  1 ;  Franklin,  No.  2,  and 
Washington,  No.  3,  it  is  impossible  we  should  know  to  which  to 
grant  the  dispensation.  The  first  subordinate  which  takes  a 
charter  will  be  denominated  No.  1,  but  the  Grand  Charter  will 
extend  equally  to  the  privilege  of  the  Past  Grands  of  the  lodges 
now  formed,  or  the  numerous  and  respectable  lodges  which  we 
sincerely  hope  you  will  in  future  form. 

JOHN  P.  ENTW^SLE,  Grand  Secretary. 

In  three  days  this  had  reached  New  York ;  the  members 
were  called  together,  when  a  formal  application  was  prepared 
and  signed,  and  enclosed  in  a  letter  explaining  the  reason  of  the 
informality  in  the  first  instance,  viz :  that  they  had  personally 
applied  to  G.  M.  Wildey  on  the  4th  of  June  for  the  Grand 
Charter,  and  relied  on  his  having  forwarded  the  necessary 
information. 

APPLICATION    OF    COLUMBIA    LODGE. 

NEW  YORK,  June  12th,  1823. 
To  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States  : 

We,  the  undersigned,  for  and  in  behalf  of  Columbia  Lodge, 
No.  1,  of  I.  O.  F.,  held  at  Brother  Lovett's,  279  Grand  Street, 
having  received  a  legal  dispensation  from  the  Loyal  Beneficent 
Duke  of  Sussex  Lodge,  No.  2,  Liverpool,  for  the  subordinate 
lodge,  do  further  petition  for  a  dispensation  from  your  lodge  to 
form  a  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  York.  We  trust  you 
will  forward  us  the  necessary  documents  as  early  as  possible  ;  as 
G.  M.  Wildey  intends  installing  our  officers  on  his  return  from 
Boston.  Wishing  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the 
LTnited  States  every  prosperity,  we  remain  vours  in  the  bonds  of 
F.  I,  and  T. 

P.  G.  JNO.  B.  EOBTNSON,  M.  N.  G.  THOS.  TURNBULL, 

P.  G.  JAMES  SIMISTER,  Y.  G.  Jos.  BARTON, 

P.  G.  JAMES  CLARIDGE,  jSectfy  T.  BALL. 

P.  G.  JOHN  GRANT, 
P.  G.  E.  WATTS. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MD.    AND   THE    U.    S.  75 

This  was  the  first  formal  petition  received  by  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States,  for  a  Grand  Lodge  Char- 
ter. It  reached  Baltimore  on  the  15th  of  June,  on  which  day 
D.  G.  M.  Welch  convened  the  Grand  Committee. 

But  to  return  to  the  brethren  in  Pennsylvania.  So  soon  as 
G.  M.  Wildey  received  the  oral  application  of  the  New  York 
brothers,  he  wrote  to  Philadelphia  and  gave  information  of  that 
fact.  The  brothers,  on  receipt  of  the  communication,  assembled, 
and  prepared  and  transmitted  what  follows : 

PHILADELPHIA,  June  6th,  1823. 
To  John  P.  Entwisle,  Grand  Secretary,  J?sq. 

RESPECTED  BROTHER: — We  have  the  pleasure  to  inform 
you  G.  M.  Wildey  arrived  in  Philadelphia  on  Sunday,  in  good 
health.  We  assembled  a  few  brothers  by  two  o'clock ;  the  infor- 
mation we  received  from  our  worthy  brother  was  pleasing  and 
instructive.  This  Lodge  had  come  to  a  determination  to  take  a 
dispensation,  charter  and  degrees;  and  we  hearing  that  a  lodge 
in  New  York  had  received  a  dispensation  from  England,  we  had 
applied  for  one  from  them  before  the  arrival  of  brother  Wildey. 
Bro.  Wildey  has  written  to  us  from  New  York,  which  communi- 
cation we  received  this  morning.  His  letter  gives  us  such  infor- 
mation as  to  enable  us  to  apply  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland 
and  of  the  United  States  for  a  charter,  etc.,  and  he  says  he  will, 
on  his  return,  provide  us  with  other  documents.  Wishing  you 
every  blessing  this  world  can  afford,  we  remain, 
In  the  bonds  of  F.  L.  and  T. 

WM.  MATHEWS,  N.  G. 

JNO.  STURGIS,  V.  G. 

THOS.  HEPWORTH,  P.  G. 

AARON  NICHOLS,  P.  G. 

NATH'L  LONGMIRE,  Sec'y. 

This  very  informal  application  was  regarded  as  sufficient. 
The  Grand  Committee,  as  before  stated,  being  called  into  session 
on  the  15th  of  June,  1823,  these  communications  were  presented. 
The  committee  first  granted  the  prayer  of  the  petitioners  for  a 
dispensation  for  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  York ; 
afterwards  the  application  from  Philadelphia  was  considered,  and, 
on  motion,  its  informalities  waived,  and  a  charter  was  granted 
to  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1 ;  after  which  a  dispensation  was 
granted  to  the  Past  Grands  of  said  Lodge  to  form  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  Pennsylvania.  The  latter  grant  was  made  in  anticipation  of 
any  application  therefor;  the  same  as  in  the  case  of  the  grant  to  the 


76  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Past  Grands  Of  Massachusetts.  The  documents  were  speedily  pre- 
pared, after  the  forms  used  for  the  Massachusetts  bodies,  and 
with  the  necessary  charge  and  degree  books,  were  forwarded  to 
the  address  of  Thomas  Wildey,  New  York,  on  the  18th  of  June, 
in  order  to  intercept  him  on  his  return  from  Boston.  Meanwhile 
G.  M.  Wildey  had  left  New  York  on  the  5th  of  June,  by  the 
land  route  for  Boston,  which  place  he  reached  on  the  8th  instant ; 
he  found  the  brethren  anxiously  awaiting  his  arrival.  On  the 
9th  of  June  he  regularly  instituted  Massachusetts  Lodge,  No.  1, 
and  instructed  such  members  as  were  eligible  in  the  several  de- 
grees of  the  Order.  He  then  went  earnestly  to  work  preparing 
the  Past  Grands  for  conducting  the  business  of  a  Grand  Lodge, 
and  was  enabled  on  June  llth,  1823,  at  the  lodge  hall  in  Ann 
Street,  to  institute  and  organize  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachu- 
setts. After  spending  a  few  days  with  the  brethren,  G.  Master 
Wildey  began  his  journey  homeward,  and  reached  New  York  on 
the  22d  of  June.  He  found  matters  but  little  changed  during 
his  absence ;  with  the  exception  of  Past  Grands  Downing  and 
Robinson,  every  member  of  Franklin  Lodge  stubbornly  refused 
to  recognize  the  new  arrangement,  and  ceased  to  meet  as  a  lodge. 
The  package  of  warrants  and  other  documents  had  arrived  from 
Baltimore,  and  at  once  the  G.  M.  proceeded  to  institute  and 
organize  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  Y^ork,  which  was 
done  at  No.  279  Grand  Street,  on  June  24th,  by  the  installation  of 
the  duly  elected  officers.  Having  imparted  all  needful  instruc- 
tions, G.  M.  Wildey  left  on  the  following  day  for  Philadelphia, 
where  he  arrived  on  the  same  evening.  Everything  being  in 
readiness,  he  instituted  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  at  No.  66  Dock 
Street,  on  June  26th,  1823.  On  the  next  day  he  organized,  at 
the  same  place,  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  Pennsylvania. 
After  remaining  a  day  or  two  for  the  purpose  of  imparting  infor- 
mation, the  Grand  Master  resumed  his  journey,  and  arrived  at 
Baltimore  on  the  1st  of  July,  1823. 

But  to  return  to  the  narrative.  A  special  Grand  Committee 
was  held  July  7th,  1823,  when  all  the  Grand  Officers  and  several 
Past  Grands  were  present.  G.  M.  Wildey  made  an  oral  report, 
setting  forth  the  difficulties  he  had  encountered,  and  his  final  suc- 
cess in  the  States  of  Massachusetts,  New  York  and  Pennsylvania. 
Whereupon  a  vote  of  thanks  to  him  was  unanimously  adopted, 
and  it  was  ordered  that  a  circular  tetter  be  addressed  to  the  sub- 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MD.    AND    THE    U.    S.  77 

ordinate  lodges  in  Maryland,  giving  information  of  the  incidents 
of  the  mission  of  the  Grand  Master  to  the  Eastern  States,  and  of 

his  safe  return. 

CIECULAR. 

SPECIAL  GRAND  COMMITTEE  OF  THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND 
AND  OF  THE  UNITED  STATES. 

BALTIMORE,  July  7,  1823. 
M.  N.  G.,  V.  G.,  Officers  and  Brothers: 

GREETING  : — The  happy  return  of  our  highly  respected  and 
Most  Worthy  Grand  Master  calls  us  together  this  day,  and  sen- 
sible of  the  anxiety  of  our  brothers  to  be  informed  of  the  success 
which  has  attended  his  travels,  the  Grand  Committee  has  in- 
structed me  to  announce  to  you,  that  the  most  sanguine  expecta- 
.tions  we  had  conceived  have  been  more  than  realized.  The  bene- 
iicial  system  we  projected,  and  the  honorable  terms  of  united 
action  we  proposed,  have  been  so  well  presented  by  our  Grand 
Master,  as  to  meet  with  the  approbation  of  all  our  brothers  here- 
tofore astray.  He  has  been  able  to  overcome  every  difficulty  that 
stood  in  the  way,  and,  by  his  almost  magic  power,  he  has  brought 
under  the  authority  and  auspices  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Mary- 
land and  of  the  United  States,  three  other  Grand  Lodges,  in  full 
operation,  in  the  States  of  Massachusetts,  New  York  and  Penn- 
sylvania. Grand  Master  Wildey  brings  satisfactory  proof  that 
the  Order,  in  each  of  these  States,  is  in  the  hands  of  those  who 
fully  understand  the  principles  of  our  honorable  fraternity ;  and 
that  its  honors  and  benefits  will  be  properly  administered,  in 
each,  in  the  same  manner  as  they  are  here,  and  that  in  everything 
they  are  acting  legally,  according  to  the  Order.  All  brothers 
bringing  cards  from  these  places  are  recommended  to  your  broth- 
erly attention,  subject  to  the  usual  examination.  With  great 
deference  to  the  feelings  of  our  Grand  Master,  it  is  proper  you 
should  know  that  a  unanimous  vote  of  thanks  has  been  accorded 
to  him,  with  every  demonstration  in  the  power  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  to  bestow,  expressive  of  its  satisfaction  at  the  great  service 
he  has  rendered  to  the  Order. 

Wishing  your  lodge  all  happiness  and  prosperity,  in  the  bonds 
of  F.  L.  and  T.,  I  am  your  affectionate  brother, 

By  order,  JOHN  P.  ENTWISLE,  Grand  Secretary. 

No  better  evidence  could  be  presented  to  show  how  highly 
the  achievements  of  the  Grand  Master  were  appreciated  by  his 
fellow-laborers  in  the  field  of  benevolence.  The  Grand  Commit- 
tee was  again  assembled,  July  20th,  when  all  the  Grand  Officers 
wrere  present,  except  D.  G.  M.  Welch.  The  Grand  Master  stated 
that  the  meeting  was  held  for  the  purpose  of  giving  sanction  to 


78  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

a  compact  he  had  made  with  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  1,  at  New 
York,  to  give  it  a  free  charter,  bearing   date   on  the  day  the 
arrangement  was  made,  on  condition  that  the  lodge  would  sur- 
render to  the  Grand  Lodge  the  dispensation  it  had  received  from 
the  Duke  of  Sussex  Lodge,  No.  2,  of  Liverpool,  England.     A 
charter  was  ordered  to  be  prepared  and  forwarded  without  delay, 
upon  the  conditions  set  forth  in  the  statement.     The  second  quar- 
terly session  was  held,  August  22d,  1823  ;  present,  G.  M.  "Wildey, 
G.  W.  Mitchell,  G.  Secretary  pro  tern.  Scotchburn,  G.  G.  Boyd> 
G.  Con.  pro  tern.  Anstice,  and  Past  Grands  McCormick  and  Nel- 
son.    The  proceedings  of  the  several  Grand  Committees,  as  was 
usual  at  quarterly  sessions,  were  read  and  approved.     Past  Grands 
Maurice  Fennell,  of  No.  1,  and  Charles  Common,  of  No.  2,  were 
admitted  to  membership.     The  sentiment  of  the  odes,  and  the* 
style  of  the  music  to  which  they  were  set,  had  become  distasteful  to 
many  of  the  members.     At  the  November  session  of  1822,  the  sub- 
ject was  referred  to  a  committee  "  to  make  alterations  in  the  words 
and  music  of  the  ode  sung  at  present  in  the  different  lodges." 
No  report  had  been  made,  and  but  one  of  the  committee,  P.  G. 
Scotchburn,  was  present  at  this  session,   but  a  resolution   was 
adopted  to  dispense  with  music  in  using  the  ode,  "  and  that  it  be 
read  at  the  time  of  making."     Another  resolution  dispensed  with 
the  opening  and  closing  odes,  and  provided  "  that  at  the  opening 
and  closing  of  the  lodges,  two  verses  of  the  song  of '  Hail  Colum- 
bia '  be  sung."     This  is  all  very  serious,  but  is  rather  provocative 
of  mirth  on  its  reading.     It  was  ludicrous  to  adopt  so  strange  an 
alteration  in  "  the  words  and  music  "  as  is  here  attempted.    Noth- 
ing could  be  more  ridiculous  than  the  reading  of  "  Brothers,  atten- 
tive stand,"  etc.,  while  the  action  required  by  the  ritual  was  pro- 
ceeding.    It  was  odd  at  best  to  open  and  close  a  fraternal  associ- 
ation with  a  song  which  had  no  kind  of  relation  to  the  business 
transacted.     It  grew  out  of  a  crisis  which  naturally  controlled 
the  elements  that  were  so  recently  thrown  together.     In  England,, 
both  policy  and  patriotism  had  caused  all  odes  used  officially  in  the 
Order,  to  IDC  fashioned  to  suit  the  national  anthem  of  "  God  Save 
the  King."     The  odes  and  music  in  use  were  imported  with  the 
Order,  and  so  long  as  it  was  an  English  society  there  was  no 
objection  to  their  use.     But  "  times  change,  and  men  change  with 
them";  home  habits  were  discarded,  new  ties  and  connections 
were  formed,  and  a  total  revolution  in  the  old  ideas  was  a  neces- 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MD.    AND   THE    U.    S.  79 

sary  consequence.  As  is  usual  with  proselytes,  the  new  opinions 
were  held  with  great  zeal  and  tenacity,  and  in  the  haste  to  get 
rid  of  the  old-world  characteristics,  they  rushed  without  any  con- 
sideration in  the  opposite  direction.  This  was  intensified  by  the 
native  element  which  had  been  gradually  infusing  itself  among 
them.  As  will  be  seen  hereafter,  this  movement  went  still  further, 
until  a  period  of  reaction  set  in  and  brought  it  back  to  the  old 
landmarks. 

It  was  at  this  session  that,  on  motion  of  G.  G.  Boyd,  the  fol- 
lowing was  adopted :  "  Resolved,  that  a  medal  be  presented  to 
Grand  Secretary  Entwisle,  in  respect  to  the  service  the  Grand 
Lodge  conceives  he  has  rendered."  This  was  the  first  instance 
where  the  Grand  Lodge  had  bestowed  more  than  a  vote  of  ap- 
proval, and  coming  from  Boyd,  who  was  very  practical,  denoted 
that  the  services  rendered  must  have  been  valuable.  Past  Grand 
Maurice  Fennell  was  made  Assistant  Grand  Secretary.  Grand 
Conductor  Larkam  was  suspended  from  membership  in  the  Grand 
Lodge  for  a  year  and  a  day,  on  the  charge  of  "  conduct  unworthy 
of  our  honorable  Order ";  but  no  specifications  are  given  nor 
report  of  trial  made.  P.  G.  Anstice  was  appointed  to  fill  the 
vacancy  of  Grand  Conductor.  At  the  third  quarterly  session, 
held  November  22,  1823,  all  the  Grand  Officers  attended,  and 
Past  Grands  McCormick,  Seed,  Nelson,  Scotchburn  and  Com- 
mon. A  report  from  the  committee  of  April  13th,  on  amend- 
ments to  the  constitution,  was  presented.  The  articles  sub- 
mitted were  modified  and  adopted,  and  a  committee  appointed  to 
have  it  printed ;  but  no  printed  copy  of  it  can  be  found  in 
minutes  or  archives.  This  instrument  was  found  in  two  manu- 
script copies ;  one  in  the  archives  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Massa- 
chusetts, and  the  other  in  those  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  New 
York.  As  the  oldest  known  Constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
it  is  here  inserted. 

CONSTITUTION    ADOPTED    NOVEMBER    22,    1823. 

Grand  Constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the 

United  States. 

SEC.  1.     ON  THE  FORMATION  OF  THE  GRAND  LODGE. 

ART.  I.  The  Grand  Lodge  is  composed  of  the  Past  Grands 
of  all  the  lodges  within  the  State  that  shall  be  acting  under  a 


80  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

legal  charter  and  in  obedience  to  the  Constitution  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  and  must  consist  of  at  least  five  P.  G.'s  from  one  or  more 
lodges. 

ART.  II.  Every  legal  lodge  shall  be  equally  represented  in 
the  Grand  Lodge,  when  by-laws  are  to  be  made,  or  when  any 
alteration,  repeal  or  amendment  shall  be  made  to  the  constitu- 
tion ;  but  in  other  business,  a  majority  of  all  the  members  present 
shall  decide. 

ART.  III.  Any  motion  for  an  alteration,  repeal  or  amend- 
ment to  the  constitution  must  be  sent  in  writing  to  the  Grand 
Master  or  Deputy,  at  least  six  months  before  the  annual  meeting, 
at  which  time  alone  they  can  be  made,  so  that  the  Grand  Secre- 
tary may  communicate  the  same  to  the  P.  G.'s  of  the  respective 
lodges,  that  they  may  send  deputies  or  appoint  proxies  to  vote 
on  them;  and  a  majority  of  three  to  one  shall  be  necessary  to 
decide. 

ART.  IY.  Any  motion  for  a  by-law  to  be  made,  altered, 
amended  or  dispensed  with,  must  be  sent  in  writing  to  the  G.  S. 
at  least  three  months  before  the  meeting  at  which  it  is  to  be 
discussed,  and  a  majority  of  the  delegates  or  proxies  shall 
decide. 

ART.  Y.  Any  P.  G.  desirous  of  entering  the  Grand  Lodge  as 
a  member,  must  send  a  certificate  signed  by  the  elective  officers 
of  his  lodge,  and  countersigned  by  a  P.  G.,  or  if  none  else  have 
passed  the  chair,  it  must  be  countersigned  by  the  Warden  and 
Guardian,  and  must  be  sealed  with  the  seal  of  the  lodge,  to-wit : 
That  P.  G.  —  -  is  clear  of  the  Secretary's  books,  and  under 
no  charges  of  breach  of  the  general  articles  or  the  by-laws,  and 
that  he  has  filled  his  office  \vith  honor  to  himself  and  with  credit 
and  advantage  to  the  Order.  Should  he  not  be  known  to  any 
member  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  he  shall  be  obligated  that  the  cer- 
tificate is  genuine,  and  the  certificate  shall  only  be  admissible  on 
the  first  session  of  the  Grand  Lodge  after  its  date.  If  the  cer- 
tificate is  satisfactory,  the  P.  G.  desiring  admittance  must  work 
his  way  with  the  Grand  Conductor  through  the  first,  second  and 
third  degrees,  and  by  the  sign  of  a  P.  G.,  and  after  due  examina- 
tion, shall  be  conducted  to  the  G.  M.  and  take  the  obligation ; 
then  to  the  G.  W.,  who,  with  the  assistance  of  the  G.  C.,  in- 
structs him  in  the  signs,  etc.,  and  explains  the  situation  of  the 
officers,  after  which  he  takes  his  situation  as  a  member  of  the 
Grand  Lodge. 

ART.  Yl.  The  Grand  Lodge  shall  meet  annually,  on  Feb- 
ruary 22d,  and  quarterly  from  that  date,  on  general  business,  and 
the  G.  M.  or  his  Deputy  have  power  to  call  a  special  committee, 
at  their  discretion,  on  extraordinary  business. 

ART.  YIT.  The  Golden  Eule  or  fourth  degree  shall  be  read 
every  quarter,  when  none  but  such  as  have  taken  it,  or  do  then 
receive  it,  shall  be  present ;  and  every  P.  G.  who  shall  receive  it, 
shall  pay  one  dollar  towards  the  support  of  the  funds. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    MD.    AND   THE    U.    8.  81 

ART.  VIII.  P.  G.'s  entering  the  Grand  Lodge  must  work 
their  way  by  the  P.  G.'s  sign  and  password. 

ART.'  IX.  No  P.  G.  shall  leave  the  lodge  without  permission 
of  the  G.  M.  or  presiding  officer,  and  password  from  the  G.  W. 

ART.  X.  Every  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge  summoned  to 
attend  at  an  annual  or  quarterly  meeting,  and  neglecting  to 
attend  such  meeting  without  sending  a  written  apology,  shall  be 
fined  fifty  cents  ;  and  on  neglect  of  a  summons  to  attend  a  com- 
mittee, without  a  sufficient  apology  in  writing,  shall  be  fined 
twenty-five  cents. 

ART.  XI.  No  refreshments  shall  be  allowed  in  the  lodge-room 
during  its  session. 

ART.  XII.  The  constitution  and  by-laws  shall  be  read  on  the 
annual  session,  and  the  brothers  of  the  third  degree  shall  be 
admitted  to  hear  them,  after  the  previous  business  is  transacted. 

ART.  XIII.  The  Grand  Lodge  may  enact  by-laws  for  the 
government  of  the  meetings,  and  for  the  regulations  necessary  to 
the  pecuniary  affairs,  provided  they  do  not  interfere  with  the 
constitution. 

SEC.  2.     ON  THE  ELECTION  AND  SITUATION  OF  OFFICERS. 

ART.  XIV.  The  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  are :  the  Grand 
Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master,  Grand  Warden,  Grand  Secretary, 
Grand  Guardian  and  Grand  Conductor.  The  candidates  for  G. 
M.  may  be  nominated  by  any  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and 
on  being  seconded,  after  three  times  calling,  the  nominated  can- 
didates shall  be  put  to  the  ballot,  and  the  G.  M.  shall  be  elected 
by  a  majority  of  tickets.  The  G.  M.  elect  shall  then  proceed  to 
nominate  three  P.  G.'s  as  candidates  for  the  office  of  D.  G.  M., 
one  of  whom  shall  be  elected  by  a  majority  of  tickets.  The  G. 
W.  shall  be  elected  in  the  same  manner  as  the  G.  M.  The  G.  S. 
shall  be  elected  also  in  like  manner.  The  G.  G.  and  G.  C.  shall 
be  appointed  by  the  G.  M. 

ART.  XV.  The  G.  M.  shall  hold  his  office  for  four  years,  and 
shall  be  eligible  as  a  candidate  for  three  years  longer,  after  the 
expiration  of  which  he  shall  not  be  eligible  as  a  candidate  till 
the  expiration  of  four  years,  if  there  are  sufficient  members  to 
fill  all  the  offices ;  but  it  shall  be  at  the  option  of  the  G.  M.  to 
resign  at  the  expiration  of  two  years,  on  notice  given  to  the 
Grand  Lodge  at  least  one  quarter  before  the  annual  meeting. 
The  D.  G.  M.  shall  hold  his  office  two  years,  and  shall  be  eligible 
as  a  candidate  for  re-election  as  long  as  the  G.  M.  shall  remain 
in  office ;  but  it  shall  be  at  the  option  of  the  D.  G.  M.  to  resign 
at  the  expiration  of  one  year,  on  notice  given  to  the  Grand 
Lodge  at  least  one  quarter  before  the  annual  meeting.  The  G. 
"W.  shall  hold  his  office  one  year,  and  shall  not  be  eligible  to  re- 
election to  that  office  for  two  clear  years,  if  there  are  a  sufficient 
6 


82  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

number  of  P.  G.'s  in  the  lodge  to  fill  all  the  offices.  The  G.  S. 
shall  hold  his  office  two  years,  and  shall  be  eligible  to  re-election 
to  that  office  without  limited  time,  but  it  shall  be  at  his  option 
to  resign,  on  notice  given  to  the  Grand  Lodge  one  quarter  before 
the  annual  meeting.  The  G.  G.  and  G.  C.  shall  hold  their  offices 
one  year,  and  shall  not  be  eligible  to  reappointment  to  the  same 
offices  for  two  clear  years,  provided  there  be  a  sufficient  number 
of  P.  G.'s. 

ART.  XVI.  The  duty  of  the  G.  M.  is  to  preside  during  the 
session,  preserving  order  and  due  observance  of  the  laws;  im- 
partially to  put  to  the  vote  all  propositions,  and  in  case  of  equal 
votes  to  give  a  casting  vote,  to  administer  the  obligations  to 
P.  G.'s  on  their  admittance  as  members  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and 
occasionally  to  visit  the  working  lodges  in  the  State.  The  duty 
of  the  D.  G.  M.  is  to  examine  every  P.  G.  in  the  Grand  Lodge ; 
to  open  and  close  the  meetings;  to  support  the  G.  M.  by  "his- 
assistance,  and  to  take  his  place  in  his  absence.  The  D.  G.  M. 
must  read  all  petitions,  propositions,  reports,  proceedings  and 
communications  brought  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  on  all  elections 
and  votes,  correctly  to  report  the  statement  thereof  to  the  G.  S. 
The  G.  W.  is  to  act  as  Vice-President.  He  must  cause  the  com- 
mands of  the  G.  M.  to  be  respected,  take  charge  of  the  order 
and  decorum  of  the  meeting  when  the  G.  M.  may  be  engaged  in 
the  business  before  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  to  give  the  signs,  etc., 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  to  newly  entered  P.  G.'s.  The  G.  S.  must 
record  a  just  and  true  account  of  the  proceedings  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  as  well  as  communications  from  all  lodges  in  the  State, 
and  to  transact  the  writing  business  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  The 
G.  G.  is  to  prove  every  P.  G.  before  he  admits  him,  to  allow 
none  to  depart  or  enter  without  a  password,  and  to  prevent  the 
admission  or  departure  of  any  during  the  actual  transaction  of 
business  without  permission  of  the  G.  M.  The  G.  C.  is  to  ex- 
amine and  conduct  new  P.  G.'s  into  the  lodge,  to  assist  the  G. 
W.  in  explaining  the  signs,  etc.,  to  them,  and  to  attend  to  the 
comfort  and  convenience  of  the  Grand  Lodge  during  session. 
In  case  of  occasional  absence  of  the  G.  M.,  when  the  D.  G.  M. 
takes  the  higher  situation,  he  shall  immediately  appoint  a  Deputy 
pro  tern.,  as  that  important  office  must  never  be  left  vacant.  In 
case  of  the  death  of  the  G.  M.  or  his  removal,  so  as  to  be  unable 
to  attend,  the  D.  G.  M.  shall  fill  his  chair  until  the  ensuing 
annual  meeting,  and  shall  nominate  three  for  the  office  of  D.  G. 
M.,  who  shall  be  voted  for  as  usual,  and  shall  serve  until  the 
annual  meeting ;  but  neither  one  nor  the  other  shall  be  entitled 
to  the  honor  of  P.  G.  M.  or  of  P.  D.  G.  M.  in  consequence 
thereof.  The  titles  shall  be  M.  W.  G.  M.,  E.  W.  D.  G.  M., 
R.  W.  G.  W.,  R.  W.  G.  S.,  W.  G.  G.,  W.  G.  C.,  and  W.  P.  G. 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MD.  AND  THE  U.  8.  83 

SEC.  3.     ON  DISPENSATIONS. 

ART.  XVII.  On  application  in  writing  from  five  brothers  of 
the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellowship,  to  obtain  a  dispensa- 
tion, the  G.  M.  or  his  Deputy  shall  appoint  a  committee  to  con- 
sider the  same,  and  if  the  report  of  the  committee  shall  be 
favorable,  the  G.  M.  shall  take  the  sense  of  the  Lodge  on  the 
same,  which  the  majority  shall  decide ;  but  if  unfavorable,  the 
G.  M.  shall,  if  a  motion  is  made  and  seconded  to  that  effect,  refer 
the  petition  to  the  committee  again  for  revision,  and  afterwards 
put  it  to  the  vote  again,  and  decide  accordingly. 

ART.  XVIII.  The  dispensation,  with  the  charges,  and  the 
lectures  of  the  first  or  white,  the  second  or  blue,  the  third  or 
scarlet,  together  with  the  covenant  and  remembrance  degrees, 
shall  be  charged  at  thirty  dollars  to  defray  the  expenses  thereof. 
The  money  to  be  paid  or  security  given  on  the  delivery  of  the 
dispensation. 

ART.  XIX.  When  a  dispensation  is  granted,  a  member  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  shall  be  deputed  to  deliver  the  same ;  to  open 
the  lodge  and  give  instructions,  such  as  he  finds  them  prepared 
to  receive,  and  are  necessary  to  have. 

ART.  XX.  Every  lodge  acting  under  the  Grand  Lodge  shall 
pay  to  the  funds  thereof  ten  percentum  on  the  amount  of  their 
quarterly  receipts,  which  must  be  sent  by  a  P.  G.  at  the  quarterly 
meeting  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  together  with  a  statement  of  expul- 
sions or  suspensions  (if  any),  the  names  and  reasons  thereof,  and 
any  other  circumstances  of  general  importance,  which  the  Grand 
Lodge  will  cause  to  be  circulated  to  all  the  other  lodges  in  the 
State. 

ART.  XXL  The  Grand  Lodge  shall  forward  a  quarterly 
password  and  explanation  to  each  lodge  in  the  State. 

ART.  XXII.  Every  lodge  must  give  a  proof  impression  of 
its  seal,  to  be  deposited  in  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  all  communica- 
tions must  be  sealed  therewith. 

In  connection  with  this  proceeding  a  resolution  was  adopted, 
directing  letters  to  be  sent  to  the  several  Grand  Lodges,  request- 
ing them  "  to  send  delegates  or  appoint  proxies  to  attend  a  Grand 
Committee  meeting,  for  the  purpose  of  making  arrangements  for 
forming  a  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States."  To  this  invitation 
it  will  be  seen  that  all  the  Grand  Lodges  responded  as  requested. 
We  will  here  insert  a  correction,  made  necessary  by  an  error 
which  has  crept  into  the  official  minute.  The  foot-note  of  page 
44,  vol.  1,  of  the  journal  of  proceedings  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
the  United  States,  presents  these  articles  as  having  been  adopted 
at  the  November  session  of  1821.  The  compiler  of  the  revised 


84  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

journal,  in  his  original  note,  confessed  that  lie  had  failed  to  obtain 
a  copy  of  the  articles. then  adopted  in  Maryland  ;  but  that  he  had 
received  the  one  presented  from  the  Boston  brethren.     Without 
critical  examination,  the  document  was  published  as  the  constitu- 
tion of  1821.     It  is  evident  that  he  was  in  error,  and  he  takes 
this  occasion  to  correct  it.     The  proceedings  show  that  all  the 
Grand  Officers  were  elected  for  a  one-year  term,  during  the  first 
two  years  of  the  existence  of  the  Grand  Lodge ;  but  that  an  alter- 
ation wan  made  at  the  February  session  of  1823,  by  which  they 
were  elected  to  serve  for  two  years.     Of  course  this  constitution 
could  not  have  been  in  force  during  that  period.     The  XIY  and 
XV  Articles  strongly  evince   that   an  apprehension   had  been 
awakened  of  a  probable  danger  to  the  local  government,  and  that 
it  wras  thought  necessary  to  be  more  conservative  in  the  funda- 
mental  articles  by  which  the  local    power  might   be  affected. 
Hence  the  provisions  for  the  quadrennial   term   of  the  Grand 
Master,  and  the  limitation  of  the  nomination  of  the  Deputy  to 
the  same  officer,  &c.     It  should  be  remembered  that  at  the  period 
when  this  action  was  had,  no  plan  for  the  separation  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  United  States  from  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland 
had  been  matured,  and  a  feeling  of  doubt  existed,  lest  by  possi- 
bility the  newly  made  lodges  and  Grand  Lodges  might  assume  to 
control  the  local,  as  well  as  the  general,  powers  of  the  Grand 
Lodge.     This  paper,  copies  of  which  Lave  been  found  among  the 
archives  of  the  two  senior  Grand   Lodges,   Massachusetts  and 
New  York,  certified  by  the  signature  of  John  P.  Entwisle,  the 
Grand  Secretary  at  the  time,  may,  without  doubt,  be  received  as 
the  constitution  of  November,  1823. 

At  this  session,  November  22,  1 823,  on  the  petition  of  P.  G. 
Thomas  Scotchburn,  P.  Y.  G.  Samuel  Bickley  and  brothers  Saun- 
ders,  Steward,  Turn  bull,  Moore  and  "Winn,  a  charter  was  granted 
for  Columbia  Lodge,  'No.  3,  to  be  located  in  Baltimore.  Past 
Grand  Joseph  Bannister  was  admitted  a  member  of  the  Grand 
Lodge.  The  Golden  Rule  (or  fourth)  degree  was  ordered  to  be 
conferred  on  Past  Grands  after  an  election  by  ballot.  G.  C. 
Anstice  resigned  his  office  and  P.  G.  Charles  Common  was  ap- 
pointed to  fill  the  vacancy ;  and  a  committee  composed  of  "Wildey, 
Pennell  and  Common  were  appointed  on  the  Entwisle  medal.  A 
Grand  Committee  was  held  December  7,  1823,  when  the  Grand 
Officers  and  Past  Grands  McCormick,  Nelson  and  Scotchburn 


THE    GKAND    LODGE    OF    MD.    AND   THE    U.    6.  85 

were  present.  An  order  was  made  that  the  scarlet  degree 
members  be  admitted  to  the  Grand  Lodge  at  the  next  quarterly 
session  on  proving  themselves  in  the  degrees.  It  was  also 
ordered,  in  deference  to  the  differences  of  opinion  before  referred 
to,  that  the  ode,  "All  hail,  Most  Noble  Grand!"  heretofore  sung 
at  the  installation  of  lodge  officers,  be  read  instead  of  being  sung. 
And  the  following  was  adopted :  "  Ordered  that  the  Grand 
Lodge  open  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  3,  and  do  proceed  to  make 
those  proposed,  if  found  worthy ;  after  which  the  officers  are  to 
be  elected  and  installed,  and  they  to  appoint  their  subordinate 
officers."  On  December  17th  this  resolution  was  carried  into 
effect  with  great  pomp,  as  we  have  already  shown  in  the  second 
chapter.  A  letter  was  read  from  an  officer  of  Massachusetts 
Lodge,  No.  1>  Boston,  complaining  that  Grand  Master  liersey 
was  assuming  authority  by  visiting  a  lodge  of  which  he  was  not 
a  member,  speaking  on  questions  before  the  lodge  without  invi- 
tation, &c.  To  this  the  Grand  Secretary  was  instructed  to  send 
an  appropriate  reply.  The  following  extract  from  the  response 
of  Grand  Secretary  Entwisle  indicates  his  views  on  the  subject 
of  the  rights  and  duties  of  a  Grand  Master  of  the  period :  "As 
individuals  of  one  great  body,  we  ought  to  be  careful  whom  we 
elect  to  offices  which  give  weight  and  consequence  to  the  incum- 
bents ;  but  when  so  elected,  we  ought  to  pay  due  respect  both  to 
the  office  and  the  officer ;  and  we  should  reasonably  expect  that 
brothers  who  thus  pass  the  post  of  honor,  and  are  admitted  mem- 
bers of  a  Grand  Lodge,  are  worthy  of  trust  and  confidence  in  the 
Order ;  and  that  as  a  body,  their  judgment  ought  to  be  respected 
by  those  who  are  not  so  far  advanced,  and  who  cannot,  therefore, 
be  presumed  to  have  the  same  experience.  The  prerogative  of 
the  Grand  Master  is  of  the  greatest  consequence ;  inasmuch  as 
he  is  at  the  head  of  the  Order,  and  has  the  most  ample  opportu- 
nity for  obtaining  an  extensive  and  general  knowledge  of  the 
existing  state  of  affairs,  as  well  as  acquaintanceship  with  the  long 
established  rules  of  the  Order,  and  being  required,  on  many 
occasions,  to  act  on  matters  of  momentary  and  instant  im- 
portance, he  is  necessarily  clothed  with  considerable  discretionary 
powers.  But  for  the  undue  or  imprudent  exercise  of  which,  he 
certainly  would  be  answerable  in  the  same  manner  as  other 
members.  For,  although  he  be  Grand  Master,  he  is  still  an  Odd 
Fellow,  and  must  act  with  an  undeviating  reference  to  the  funda- 


86  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

mental  principles  of  the  Order.  But  it  is  not  fitting  that  the 
brother  who  has  advanced  to  this  honorable  station  should  be 
reflected  on,  in  his  official  capacity,  by  persons  of  limited  acquire- 
ments, perhaps  under  the  influence  of  prejudice.  And  his  con- 
duct as  Grand  Master  can  only  be  brought  in  question  before  the 
Grand  Lodge.  With  respect  to  his  right  to  visit  or  attend  sub- 
ordinate lodges,  and  their  special  or  general  meetings  or  commit- 
tees, it  is  certain  and  inalienable.  And  not  only  so,  but  it  is  his 
duty,  by  personal  attendance  or  by  representation  through  his 
Deputy,  to  attend  on  all  extraordinary  occasions,  w^hen  practicable, 
when  it  is  to  the  interest  of  the  Order  that  he  should  be  acquainted 
with  the  proceedings  of  any  lodge  under  his  care.  And  it  is 
desirable  that  lodges  should  individually  benefit  by  his  counsel  and 
advice.  Nevertheless,  he  can  have  no  vote  except  in  the  lodge  of 
which  he  is  an  active  member." 

The  annual  session  was  held  February  22,  1824 ;  present,  the 
Grand  Officers  and  Past  Grands  McCormick,  Seed,  Nelson, 
Scotchburn,  Williams  and  Bannister.  Past  Grands  Henry 
Harris,  of  No.  1,  and  John  Roach,  of  No.  2,  were  admitted  as 
members.  The  Grand  Master  announced  that  pursuant  to  the 
resolution  of  the  last  quarterly  session,  the  Grand  Lodges  had 
appointed  proxies  to  aid  in  the  formation  of  a  Grand  Lodge  of 
the  United  States.  For  Massachusetts,  Grand  Master  Wildey ; 
New  York,  P.  G.  Scotchburn,  and  Pennsylvania,  G.  G.  Boyd. 
He  then  stated  that  as  Grand  Master  he  felt  obliged  to  decline 
his  appointment,  but  as  he  was  authorized  to  name  a  substitute, 
he  delegated  A.  G.  Sec'ty  Fennell  to  act  for  Massachusetts.  The 
Grand  Lodge  then  sitting  as  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  pro- 
ceeded "  to  an  election  by  ticket,  for  a  member  to  represent  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland."  The  vote  being  had,  the  choice  by 
a  majority  was  made  of  G.  Sec'ty  Entwisle.  He  was  the  first 
elected  representative  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States, 
and  as  such,  may  share  with  Wildey  the  reputation  due  to  the 
father  of  that  great  body.  A  recess  was  then  taken  to  enable 
the  delegates  to  assemble ;  after  which  the  representatives  and 
proxies  of  the  several  Grand  Lodges  convened  in  Special  Grand 
Committee.  The  roll  was  called  with  the  following  result: 
present,  G.  Sec'ty  Entwisle,  representative  of  Maryland ;  A.  G. 
Sec'ty  Fennell,  proxy  for  Massachusetts ;  P.  G.  Thomas  Scotch- 
burn^  proxy  for  New  York,  and  G.  G.  John  Boyd,  proxy  for 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MD.  AND  THE  U.  B.          87 

Pennsylvania.  The  committee  organized  by  inviting  G.  M. 
Thomas  Wildey  to  preside,  and  Kep.  Entwisle  to  act  as  Secretary. 
G.  M.  Wildey  delivered  what  was  styled  "  a  very  appropriate 
address,"  which  was  not  preserved.  After  consultation,  the  fol- 
lowing was  adopted : 

RESOLUTIONS    TO    FORM    A    GRAND    LODGE    OF   THE   UNITED    STATES. 

Resolved^  As  the  opinion  of  the  Representatives  assembled, 
that  it  is  essentially  necessary  to  the  success  of  a  Grand  Lodge, 
that  it  should  be  established  on  the  most  undoubted  basis ;  and 
to  which  end  it  is  advisable  to  obtain  from  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Maryland  and  of  the  United  States,  the  charter  under  which  the 
said  Grand  Lodge  now  operates. 

Resolved,  That  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the 
United  States  be  invited  to  convey  the  charter  obtained  from 
England,  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  in  a  separate 
and  distinct  capacity,  for  the  exclusive  use  of  that  body. 

And  then,  after  instructing  each  representative  to  consult 
with  his  constituent  Grand  Lodge  on  the  propriety  of  carrying  out 
the  spirit  of  the  above  resolutions,  and  empowering  the  presiding 
Grand  Master  to  convene  another  meeting  of  the  representatives 
and  proxies,  to  receive  and  act  on  the  ascertained  views  of  the 
several  Grand  Lodges,  the  Grand  Committee  adjourned. 

The  plan  proposed  in  these  resolutions  for  eifecting  a  separate 
organization  of  the  Supreme  Grand  Lodge,  seems  to  have  been 
reached  by  a  careful  examination  of  the  situation  in  -which  the 
Order  in  the  State  of  Maryland  stood  relatively  to  the  portions 
operating  in  the  other  States.  The  Maryland  brothers  desired 
to  extend  to  their  brethren  elsewhere  an  equitable  share  in  the 
government  of  the  fraternity ;  but  to  allow  the  representatives 
of  the  other  Grand  Lodges  to  take  seats  in  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Maryland  and  of  the  United  States,  as  it  was  then  operated, 
would  be  to  give  them  undue  control  over  its  local  interests. 
This  apprehension  caused  perplexity  in  the  council  of  the 
brethren,  and  made  it  necessary  to  use  caution  in  adopting  any 
measure  bearing  on  the  specific  matter.  This  was  the  cause  of 
the  delay  that  had  already  taken  place,  and  that  still  operated  in 
retarding  the  business.  Hence  the  care  taken  to  induce  the 
several  Grand  Lodges  to  become  applicants  for  the  surrender  of 
the  old  charter  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the 


88  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

United  States,  instead  of  being  merely  the  recipient  of  a  proffered 
boon,  indicates  the  caution  with  which  the  subject  had  been 
weighed.     By  the  arrangement  proposed,  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Maryland  and  of  the  United  States  was  not  yet  committed  to 
any  plan,  nor  would  it  be  required  to  surrender  anything  until 
after  the  other  Grand  Lodges  had  jointly  requested  it  to  do  so. 
Then,  as  we  shall  see,  it  was  supposed  that  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Maryland  would  be  in  a  position  to  dictate  terms.     The  MS. 
marginal  notes  on  a  journal  of  the  proceedings  of  the  G.  L, 
of  the  U.  S.,  Vol.  I,  page  64,  say  in  regard  to  the  first  of  the 
resolutions :  "  Undoubted  basis.     That  is,  that  there  should  be  no 
mistake  as  to  the  authority,  or  the  general  consent  of  all  the 
respective  jurisdictions."     On  the  second  resolution  they  say: 
"  Impracticable  and  ridiculous,  and  a  misconception  of  power  " ; 
and  on  the  third,  "  Difficult  to  tell  what  this  resolution  means, 
unless  it  was  supposed  that  the  original  so-called  charter  from 
England  was  assignable  by  the  grantees.1'     In   a  certain  sense 
this  may  be  true,  but  the  light  afforded  by  the  action  of  Wash- 
ington Lodge  in  182-1,  in  surrendering  the  same  document  to  the 
P.  Grands  of  that  Lodge,  enables  us  to  see  that  the  ordinary 
rules  were  not  to  be  applied  in  such  an  emergency.     This  prece- 
dent in  overturning  ancient  usage  was  the  means  of  leading  to 
the  bolder  step  here  projected,  of  a  second  assignment  which 
ultimately  brought  about  the  re-habilitation  of  the  basis  and  scope 
of  the  whole  Order,  by  the  reception  of  a  new  and  independent 
charter  in  1826  from  England.     If  there  was  any  irregularity  it 
was  cured  by  the  last  instrument,  which  was  in  a  legal  sense  an 
exchange  by  which  the  new  charter  was  given  in  lieu  of  that 
which  had  been  assigned  to  the   Grand  Lodge  of  the  United 
States. 

When  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States 
resumed  its  session,  the  first  business  announced  was  a  communi- 
cation from  Isaac  Hardman,  Corresponding  Secretary  of  the  Man- 
chester Unity,  in  which  he  stated  that  the  first  Grand  Annual 
Movable  Committee  of  that  Order  was  held  at  Hawley,  in  Staf- 
fordshire, on  May  the  19th,  1823,  when,  among  other  proceedings, 
the  following  was  had :  "  Eesolved,  that  the  general  password, 
4  upon  my  honor,'  be  totally  done  away  with,  and  general  quarterly 
changeable  passwords  be  substituted  for  all  lodges  and  districts  in 
compliance,  and  that  the  G.  M.  of  the  Manchester  District  be  ap- 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MD.    AND    THE    U.    8.  89 

pointed  and  authorized  from  time  to  time  to  give  or  communicate 
it."  "  Resolved,  that  the  password  be  communicated  with  the 
Manchester  quarterly  minutes,  copies  of  which  shall  be  forwarded 
to  each  District  Grand  Master  for  all  the  lodges  under  his  jurisdic- 
tion, and  to  lodges  separately  in  strict  compliance  which  have 
not  formed  or  joined  any  district."  "  Resolved,  on  the  report  of 
the  deputation  to  consider  the  alterations  in  the  lectures  and  signs, 
that  the  lectures  and  signs  now  introduced  and  explained,  with 
the  alterations  and  amendments,  be  adopted  in  lieu  of  the  old 
ones."  Owing  to  the  difficulties  attending  transmission  to  this 
country  at  the  time,  no  special  information  of  the  changes  which 
had  been  effected  was  then  communicated.  But  the  Grand  Lodge 
directed  a  reply  to  be  sent,  expressive  of  its  disapprobation  of  such 
alterations,  and  requiring  further  information  relative  to  the 
matter.  And  then  a  committee,  consisting  of  D.  G.  M.  Welch, 
G.  Sec.  Entwisle,  G.  Con.  Common  and  A.  G.  Sec.  Fennell,  was 
instructed  to  prepare  a  suitable  letter,  addressed  to  the  brothers 
in  England,  showing  the  progress  made  by  the  Order  in  this 
country,  and  to  have  twelve  copies  printed  in  circular  form.  This 
circular  was  not  transmitted  until  April,  a  copy  of  which  will  be 
found  in  its  appropriate  place.  The  question  of  the  utility  of  a 
travelling  password,  to  be  used  only  by  members  in  good  stand- 
ing while  on  travel,  with  cards,  was  considered,,  and  resulted 
in  the  passage  of  the  following :  "  Resolved,  that  a  T.  P.  W.  be 
adopted  for  the  protection  of  the  Order  in  the  United  States." 
And  then  a  T.  P.  W.  for  the  current  year  was  selected.  An 
order  was  made  to  hold  the  meetings  of  the  Grand  Lodge  in 
future  on  the  regular  days  appointed,  unless  the  day  of  the  month 
should  fall  on  Sunday.  It  was  also  ordered  that  when  visitors 
are  present  at  a  session  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  the  order  of  busi- 
ness shall  be  at  first  confined  to  local  or  State  .affairs,  and  when 
these  are  disposed  of,  to  proceed  to  the  business  of  a  general 
character.  It  was  represented  in  the  Grand  Lodge  that  a  diver- 
sity of  opinion  existed  among  the  membership  in  Baltimore  in 
regard  to  annual  celebrations,  when  a  communication  was  di- 
rected to  be  sent  to  the  subordinate  lodges  of  Maryland,  recom- 
mending them  to  adopt  the  26th  of  April  as  the  general  anniver- 
sary. The  Grand  Lodge  arranged  to  visit  each  of  the  subordinate 
lodges  in  the  course  of  the  next  three  months,  and  then  adjourned, 
it  having  been  one  of  the  most  laborious  sessions  of  the  body. 


90  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  Grand  Secretary  made  up  a  summary  of  the  condition  of  the 
Order,  which  is  important,  from  being  the  initial  effort  of  that 
sort  of  document.  It  sets  forth  that  there  were,  subordinate  to 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States,  three 
Grand  Lodges,  having  under  them  three  subordinate  lodges,  and 
the  Grand  Lodge  itself  having  also  three  subordinate  lodges, 
making  a  total  in  this  country  of  one  Supreme  Grand  Lodge, 
three  subordinate  Grand  Lodges  and  six  subordinate  lodges. 

The  financial  affairs  during  the  preceding  year  presented  a 
more  healthy  condition,  showing  largely  increased  amounts  on 
both  sides  of  the  ledger,  but  a  reduced  balance.  At  the  begin- 
ning of  the  year  the  balance  in  hand  was  $55.02,  the  receipts  as 
percentage  from  No.  1,  $32.25,  and  from  No.  2,  $42.56,  for  char- 
ters, $75.00,  and  from  individual  members,  $29.50,  making  a 
total  of  $234.33.  The  expenditures  wrere,  for  printing,  &c., 
$89.42,  travelling  expenses,  $50.00,  incidentals,  $76.12,  making  a 
total  of  $215.54,  and  leaving  the  balance  of  $18.79.  From  the 
percentage  paid  it  would  appear  that  the  receipts  of  Washington 
Lodge  No.  1  had  been  $322.50,  and  of  Franklin  Lodge  No.  2, 
$425.60,  which  implies  a  favorable  change  in  that  branch  of  the 
Order.  The  Grand  Committee  was  convened  March  16th,  1824, 
wrhen  were  present  G.  M.  Wildey,  G.  Sec'y  Entwisle,  A.  G.  Sec'y 
Fennell,  G.  G.  Boyd,  G.  Con.  Common  and  P.  G.'s  N.elson, 
Scotchburn  and  Roach.  The  session  was  occupied  in  the  routine 
of  correspondence  with  the  new  Grand  Lodges,  which  required 
incessant  nursing ;  orders  for  printing,  which  was  already  begin- 
ning to  show  its  increasing  dimensions,  etc.,  etc.  An  article  had 
appeared  in  the  Boston  press  which  met  the  approbation  of  the 
committee,  and  an  order  was  made  to  have  it  republished  in  the 
Baltimore  papers.  The  tenor  of  the  article  is  unknown.  The 
Grand  Committee  was  again  convened  on  April  15th,  when 
were  present  G.  M.  Wildey,  D.  G.  M.  Welch,  G.  Secretary 
Entwisle,  G.  G.  Boyd,  G.  Con.  Common  and  P.  G.'s  McCor- 
mick  and  Nelson.  The  G.  M.  stated  that  the  committee 
had  been  called  together  to  consider  a  communication  which 
G.  Secretary  Entwisle  was  prepared  to  present  on  the  subject 
of  organizing  a  separate  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States. 
Grand  Sec'y  Entwisle,  as  the  Representative  of  Maryland,  sub- 
mitted the  proceedings  had  at  the  Special  Grand  Committee  held 
February  22d,  1S24,  to  make  arrangements  to  form  a  separate 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    MD.    AND    THE    U.    8.  91 

Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  He  stated  that  as  Acting 
Grand  Secretary  he  had  sent  them  to  the  State  Grand  Lodges, 
and  had  received  from  Massachusetts,  New  York  and  Pennsyl- 
vania an  affirmative  response ;  "  and  now,  as  the  approved  act  of 
the  several  Grand  Lodges,"  he  submitted  the  proposal  formally 
for  the  consideration  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the 
United  States.  The  whole  subject  was  referred  to  a  committee 
to  report  forthwith.  It  is  evident,  from  the  formidable  character 
of  the  report,  that  it  had  been  carefully  prepared  in  advance. 
The  committee,  consisting  of  G.  M.  Wildey,  G.  D.  M.  Welch 
and  G.  Sec'y  Entwisle,  presented  the  following,  which  was  unani- 
mously adopted : 

ORAND    LODGE    REPORT    OF    COMMITTEE    ON   THE   FORMATION   OF    THE 
GRAND    LODGE    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES. 

Your  Committee,  while  deeply  impressed  with  the  delicate 
nature  and  great  importance  of  the  matter  referred  to  them,  and 
fully  aware  of  the  magnitude  of  the  result  expected  from  their 
labor,  have  exerted  their  best  endeavor  to  fulfill  the  charge  satis- 
factorily, and  respectfully  submit  the  following  report : 

Your  Committee  find  it  necessary  to  take  a  view  of  the  whole 
ground  on  which  Odd  Fellowship  has  operated,  while  considering 
the  subject  before  them,  being  convinced  that  it  is  advisable  to 
exhibit  all  the  main  historical  points  which  its  magnitude  so 
imperiously  demands.  Your  Committee  is  entrusted  to  propose 
a  radical  change  in  the  form  of  the  government  of  the  Order  at 
large,  and  to  prepare  a  plan  for  effecting  it  in  a  shape  suitable 
to  be  submitted  to  the  several  Grand  Lodges  throughout  the 
Union,  which,  at  the  same  time,  will  be  explanatory  of  the 
changes  deemed  necessary.  Your  Committee  would,  in  the  first 
place,  respectfully  recall  to  the  memory  of  the  members  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  the  days  now  gone  and  past,  when  Odd  Fellowship 
in  its  infancy  as  an  Order  in  these  United  States  had  to  meet 
and  contend  against  every  obstacle  which  ignorance  of  its  prin- 
ciples in  some,  and  jealousy  of  its  presumptive  success  with 
others,  could  throw  in  its  way.  And  these  outside  enemies  were 
more  than  aided  in  their  endeavors  by  the  conduct  of  professed 
brothers,  who,  led  by  an  ambition  to  appear  the  greatest,  or  by  a 
design  to  impose,  under  the  guise  of  F.  L.  and  T.,  on  the  confid- 
ing friendship  and  ready  credulity  of  the  brethren,  inflicted  a 
damage  on  the  whole  fraternity,  far  exceeding  any  that  could  be 
effected  by  others.  It  was  at  the  time  the  Order  was  thus  suffer- 
ing, when  every  faithful  brother  had  been  called  to  his  post,  their 
services  being  needed,  that  they  took  a  firm  stand,  although  but 


92  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

few  in  numbers,  and  saved  the  Order  from  destruction.  This 
minority,  by  devoted  action,  strict  attention  to  duty  and  unre- 
mitting zeal,  were  enabled  to  become  an  overwhelming  majority, 
and  to  save  the  Order  from  a  premature  grave.  The  circum- 
stances surrounding  that  eventful  period  ought  forever  to  endear 
to  us  the  champions  of  the  day ;  those  who  sacrificed  their  time 
and  money,  and,  in  the  eyes  of  the  uninformed,  almost  their  repu- 
tation, for  our  eventual  success ;  those  Past  Grands  who,  having 
the  interest  of  the  Order  at  heart,  felt  bound  by  the  most  solemn 
and  sacred  ties  to  act  together  for  the  welfare  of  the  whole.  They 
not  only  took  such  steps  as  would  tend  to  preserve  the  purity  and 
ensure  the  stability  of  the  superstructure,  but  also  were  anxious 
to  add,  with  proper  carefulness,  every  suitable  embellishment 
offered  for  its  improvement  and  advantage. 

Your  committee  wrill  next  beg  leave  to  bring  to  your  recollec- 
tion, among  other  interesting  circumstances,  the  agreement  to  form 
the  Past  Grands  into  a  separate  body,  made  between  them  and 
their  fellow-members  of  .No.  1,  "Washington  Lodge,  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States  of  America— the 
lirst  chartered  lodge  of  Odd  Fellows  in  the  United  States,  and 
which  received  its  charter  according  to  the  usage  of  the  Order 
in  England ;  and  being  the  only  lodge  in  America  that  had  at 
that  time  received  a  regular  dispensation,  it  took  its  rank  accord- 
ingly. Pursuant  to  usage,  the  general  business  had  previously 
been  transacted  by  the  committee  of  Past  Grands  of  the  lodge, 
and  the  members  of  this  committee  made  the  proposal  to  the 
lodge,  to  deliver  over  the  English  warrant  to  the  exclusive  custody 
of  the  Past  Grands  of  that  lodge,  and  to  the  Past  Grands  of  all 
lodges  that  would  unite  together  in  the  formation  and  support 
of  a  Grand  Lodge  composed  exclusively  of  Past  Grands.  So 
soon  as  this  proposal  was  made  and  explained  to  the  members  of 
No.  1,  Washington  Lodge,  it  was  acceded  to  with  gladness.  The 
unanimous  opinion  of  the  brethren,  after  a  little  discussion,  set- 
tled down  in  favor  of  the  principle  that  the  superior  power  should 
be  delegated  to  the  most  experienced  of  the  membership,  that  it 
should  result  from  a  free  vote  of  the  brethren  of  all  the  lodges  in 
the  district,  that  no  one  individual  lodge  had  a  just  claim  to  exer- 
cise the  authority  of  superintendent  over  the  other  lodges,  or 
was  entitled  to  any  preference  whatever,  save  the  respect  always 
conceded  in  civil  society  to  seniority.  With  earnest  and  sanguine 
hopes  that  this  measure  would  lead  to  a  wide  increase  in  lodges 
and  membership,  Washington  Lodge  nobly  sacrificed  its  pride, 
gave  up  what  are  called  "  chartered  rights,"  and  agreed  to  receive, 
as  a  humble  subordinate,  a  dispensation  from  the  body  thus  cre- 
ated by  the  voluntary  act  of  its  own  members.  The  unanimity 
of  opinion  among  brothers  displayed  on  that  memorable  occasion 
has  seldom  been  equalled,  and  lias  been  followed  by  a  series  of 
successes  which  could  only  have  been  produced  by  wise  and  judi- 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MD.    AND    THE    U.    S.  .       93 

eious  measures.  This  Grand  Charter  was  received  by  Washing- 
ton Lodge,  in  Baltimore,  on  October  23d,  1820,  and  was  thus 
unanimously  vested  in  the  body  of  Past  Grands  on  February 
22d,  1821,  when  it  was  duly  organized  as  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Maryland  and  of  the  United  States.  The  day  was  purposely 
selected,  being  the  birthday  of  the  illustrious  Father  of  his  coun- 
try, the  champion  of  liberty,  the  mirror  of  virtue,  and  in  public 
and  private  life  alike,  the  ornament  of  patriotic  principle  and  of 
social  philanthropy.  Your  committee  have  digressed  for  a  mo- 
ment, in  order  that  you  may  understand  that  our  annual  sessions 
are  held  on  this  day  in  honor  of  the  great  man  of  America.  Your 
committee,  with  increasing  delight,  can  now  proceed  toward  that 
period  when  the  crooked  paths  become  comparatively  straight, 
and  the  rough  places  smooth ;  when  the  emblem  of  justice  was 
uplifted  by  Washington  Lodge  No.  1  and  Franklin  Lodge  No.  2, 
being  firmly  united  in  the  bonds  of  Friendship,  Love  and  Truth ; 
when  a  system  of  equality  had  been  established  under  which  none 
<?ould  take  the  lead  of  the  other,  except  as  merit  or  talent  gave 
the  claim.  Your  committee  will  now  briefly  advert  to  the  mis- 
sion of  our  worthy  Grand  Master,  Thomas  Wildey,  and  the  advan- 
tages resulting  therefrom  to  our  Order  throughout  the  Union. 
The  brethren  he  visited  in  Massachusetts,  New  York  and  Penn- 
sylvania all  testify,  in  the  most  decided  manner,  to  the  great  respect 
they  entertain  for  him,  and  how  highly  they  appreciate  the  work 
he  has  done.  And  your  committee  cannot  fail  to  observe  with 
gratification,  the  friendly  exchange  of  sentiment  and  sympathy 
which  has  ever  since  been  maintained,  and  regard  it  as  the  evi- 
dence of  the  formation  of  the  strong  bond  of  a  perpetual  union. 
Your  committee  beg  to  express  their  acknowledgments  for 
the  honor  conferred  on  themselves,  in  having  been  entrusted  to 
perform  the  duty  of  preparing  the  way  for  a  further  extension  of 
equal  privileges  toward  the  Grand  Lodges  of  the  different  States 
of  the  Union,  and  respectfully  submit  for  consideration  the  accom- 
panying preamble  and  resolutions. 

TH.  WILDEY, 
JOHN  WELCH, 
JOHN  P.  ENTWISLE, 

Committee. 

WHEREAS,  It  is  expedient  in  sound  policy  that  the  Grand 
Lodges  of  the  Order  of  I.  O.  F.  in  the  United  States  should  hold 
a  close  adherence  and  a  regular  correspondence  with  each  other, 
and  it  is  imperative  in  strict  justice  to  render  the  several  Grand 
Lodges  in  the  Union  independent  of  each  other,  to  be  equally 
represented  in  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  either  by 
representatives  or  proxies,  and  that  it  is  inexpedient,  as  well  as 
invidious,  that  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  United  States  should  act  under  the  same  charter 


94:  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

and  be  presided  over  by  the  same  Grand  Master,  whereby  the 
office  of  Grand  Master  would  be  confined  to  the  State  of  Mary- 
land, to  the  preference  of  one  State  and  possibly  to  the  injury  of 
the  whole.  Therefore  be  it  resolved, 

1st.  That  we  highly  approve  of  the  city  of  Baltimore,  in 
the  State  of  Maryland,  as  the  permanent  seat  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  United  States,  being  central  in  situation  as  well  a& 
senior  in  order. 

2d.  That  we  hail  with  grateful  remembrance  the  day  when 
the  Grand  Charter  was  vested  in  the  Past  Grands ;  the  death- 
blow to  schism  and  dissension,  and  the  epoch  of  prosperity  to  the 
Order. 

3d.  That  the  Grand  Charter  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United 
States  be  vested  in  the  Past  Grands  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United  States,  and  that  Maryland  shall  receive  a  Grand  Charter 
from  the  same,  and  thereupon  resign  all  claim  or  title  to  or  from 
it,  other  than  in  common  with  the  other  Grand  Lodges ;  which 
said  Grand  Charter  shall  have  and  contain,  in  the  engrossing 
thereof,  a  clause  representing  the  said  investment  and  condition ; 
and  further,  that  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the 
United  States  doth  give  the  said  charter  on  condition  that  they 
keep  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  in  Maryland. 

4th.  That  the  Grand  Master  and  the  proxies  of  the  several 
Grand  Lodges  do  proceed  forthwith,  and  are  required  to  complete 
the  Constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  and 
have  the  same  brought  forward  for  consideration  and  adoption^ 
on  or  before  the  second  quarterly  meeting  of  the  Grand  Lodge> 
the  22d  of  August. 

5th.  That  when  passed,  a  correct  copy  of  the  Constitution 
be  forwarded  to  each  Grand  Lodge  within  one  month  after  the 
aforesaid  time,  in  order  that  the  necessary  information  may  be 
received  thereon,  previous  to  the  next  annual  meeting. 

The  resolutions  were  immediately  transmitted  to  the  State 
Grand  Lodges  for  consideration,  but  did  not  meet  with  the  gene- 
ral approval.  The  Grand  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  had  objection 
to  the  expression  in  the  1st  resolution,  making  Baltimore  "  the 
permanent  seat  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,"  as  well 
as  to  the  last  clause  of  the  3d  resolution,  but  did  not  give  imme- 
diate utterance  to  it.  Meanwhile  the  members  designated  by  the 
4th  resolution  applied  themselves  to  preparing  the  form  of  a  con- 
stitution in  conformity  to  the  plan  proposed,  so  as  to  be  ready  to 
submit  it  at  the  August  session.  The  quarterly  session  was  held 
on  May  22d,  1824 ;  present,  G.  M.  Wildey,  D.  G.  M.  Welch,  A.  G. 
Sec'y  Fennell,  G.  G.  Boyd,  G.  Con.  Common,  and  P.  G.'s  Nelson, 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MD.    AND   THE    U.    8.  95 

Scotchburn,  Williams,  Roach  and  Harris.  Washington  Lodge, 
ISTo.  1,  applied  for  the  privilege  to  meet  "  fortnightly  "  instead  of 
"  weekly,"  as  heretofore,  which  was  granted,  with  a  recommen- 
dation to  the  other  two  lodges  to  adopt  the  same  plan.  The  com- 
mittee appointed  at  the  February  session  for  the  purpose,  reported 
having  interchanged  views  with  the  several  Grand  Lodges,  and 
that  they  had  transmitted  in  printed  form  a  circular  letter  to  the 
brethren  in  England,  of  which  the  following  is  a  copy : 

CIRCULAE. 

GRAND  LODGE  OF  THE  UNITED  STATES  OF  AMERICA. 
To  all  whom  it  may  concern,  in  the  bonds  of  F.  L.  and  T. 

GREETING: — The  brethren  of  the  Order  who  have  passed  the 
presiding  Chair,  arid  now  have  the  privilege  of  meeting  the  Grand 
Lodge,  feel  a  pleasure  which  it  is  impossible  to  describe,  in  holding 
a  communication  with  friends  and  brothers  in  far  distant  lands, 
which  many  of  them  never  saw,  and  perhaps  never  will  see. 
Still  the  same  sentiment  pervades  the  mind  and  directs  the  pen,  to 
offer  to  our  unseen  brothers  the  friendly  assurance  of  respect  and 
good  will,  when  distance  prevents  the  exemplification  of  it  by  the 
grip  and  sign ;  by  participation  in  the  joys,  or  sympathizing  in 
the  sorrows  of  this  checquered  life.  Those  only  who  study  the 
principles  and  act  out  the  part  of  Odd  Fellows,  in  the  true  sense 
of  these  words,  can  feel  the  force  of  these  friendly  emotions ;  and  as 
there  can  be  nothing  more  pleasing  to  the  sensitive  mind  than 
to  give  and  receive,  and  thus  delightfully  reciprocate  enjoyment, 
we  have  the  supreme  gratification,  in  compliance  with  a  resolu- 
tion of  the  Grand  Lodge,  to  address  the  Independent  Odd  Fellows 
throughout  England. 

Dear  and  respected  brothers,  it  affords  us  great  joy  to  learn, 
through  various  channels,  that  the  Order  is  increasing  in  num- 
bers and  improving  in  respectability  in  your  part  of  the  world ; 
but  we  regret  that  our  intercourse,  by  correspondence,  has 
been  so  limited,  and  it  is  with  the  twofold  view  of  cheering 
you  with  the  account  of  our  prosperity,  and  of  eliciting  from 
you  a  return  of  information  at  once  pleasing  and  instructive,  that 
the  Grand  Lodge  has  directed  me  to  communicate  with  you  by 
circular.  As  I  presume  the  information  will  be  gratifying,  I 
acquaint  you  that  our  Order  was  established  in  this  city  on 
April  26th,  1819,  and  from  a  small  and  weak  beginning,  has 
been  increased  by  the  unremitting  attendance  of  the  faithful, 
and  has  overcome  every  difficulty  which  ignorance,  prejudice, 
and  unworthy  membership  have  thrown  in  our  path;  the 
hydra-head  of  Discord  has  been  bruised,  and,  according  to  pre- 
sent appearance,  deprived  of  animation.  May  the  sacred  flame 


96  AMEKICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

of  friendship  burn  on  the  altar  of  the  human  heart,  unquenched 
"by  the  waters  of  adversity,  ever  fed  by  the  oil  of  affection,  and 
supported  by  the  noble  and  unappalled  front  of  truth  and  honor. 
We  number  in  the  United  States  at  present  FIVE  Git  AND  LODGES, 
viz :  I.  The  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  which  pre- 
sides over  all,  and  is  the  centre  point  of  communication  and  cor- 
respondence of  all  the  rest,  and  which  meets  yearly,  on  February 
22d.  II.  The  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  which  meets  once  a 
quarter,  in  Baltimore,  having  under  its  jurisdiction  the  Washing- 
ton, No.  1,  Franklin,  No.  2,  and  Columbia,  No.  3.  III.  The 
Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts,  which  meets  in  Boston,  and  has 
under  its  jurisdiction  the  Massachusetts,  No.  1,  and  Siloam,  No. 
2.  IV.  The  Grand  Lodge  of  New  York,  which  meets  in  the 
city  of  New  York,  and  has  under  its  jurisdiction  the  Columbia, 
No.  1,  and  Franklin,  No.  2.  V.  The  Grand  Lodge  of  Pennsyl- 
vania, which  meets  in  Philadelphia,  and  has  under  its  jurisdic- 
tion the  Pennsylvania,  No.  1,  and  another  just  opened,  the  name 
not  yet  returned.  The  numbers  of  the  membership  are  consider- 
able, and  their  respectability  entirely  satisfactory,  and  from  all 
appearance  we  shall  soon  be  very  widely  extended  over  this  vast 
continent.  We  shall  always  have  pleasure  in  seconding  any  mea- 
sures calculated  to  promote  the  general  good,  and  to  that  intent 
we  shall  be  glad  to  receive  and  reciprocate  any  information  in 
your  possession  or  ours.  We  find  but  little  difficulty,  compara- 
tively, in  communicating  with  our  societies  here,  although  the 
facilities  are  far  less  than  with  you ;  having  a  central  and  general 
head,  enables  all  to  act  in  unison,  so  that  we  fear  no  enemy.  In 
answer  to  a  communication  we  have  received  from  the  King 
George  the  Fourth,  or  Victory  Lodge,  in  Liverpool,  we  have 
written  a  long  letter,  and  requested  that  lodge  to  make  it  public 
to  the  Order  generally.  We  regret  to  hear  that  there  should  be 
any  misunderstanding  in  the  fraternity,  as  it  will  not  fail  to  injure 
the  cause  more  or  less ;  but  for  our  views  on  these  subjects  I 
respectfully  refer  you  to  the  letter  before  mentioned.  In  conclu- 
sion, permit  me  to  renew  assurances  of  the  sincere  respect  and 
brotherly  attachment  entertained  for  you  by  the  fraternity  on  this 
side  of  the  Atlantic,  and  of  our  best  wishes  for  your  present  and 
future  welfare,  both  in  your  individual  and  social  capacities. 
Believe  me,  respected  brothers,  yours  in  the  bonds  of  the  Order. 

JOHN  P.  ENTWISLE,  Grand  Setfy. 
Baltimore,  April,  1824. 
Approved:  THOMAS  WILDEY,  G.  M.,  JOHN  WELCH,  I).  G.  M. 

The  above  is  the  last  of  the  documents  which  appear  with 
the  signature  of  the  most  useful  of  the  men  who  counselled  with 
the  G.  M.  during  his  early  career.  A  Grand  Committee  was 
called  by  the  Grand  Master  on  July  6,  1824;  present,  G.  Master 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MD.    AND    THE    U.    S.  97 

Wilde}7,  D.  G.  M. pro  tern.  Scotehburn,  A.  G.  Sec'y  Fennell, 
G.  G.  Boyd,  G.  Con.  Common,  and  P.  G.'s  McCormick,  Kelson, 
Williams  and  Roach.  The  G.  M.  announced  that  the  meeting 
was  held  in  consequence  of  the  sudden  death  of  the  Grand  Sec- 
retary John  P.  Entwisle ;  whereupon  it  was  proposed  to  pay  to 
the  widow  of  the  deceased  the  amount  heretofore  appropriated  to 
purchase  a  medal,  intended  to  be  presented  to  him  in  recognition 
of  the  service  he  had  rendered  to  the  Order ;  which  was  unani- 
mously agreed  to.  The  second  quarterly  session  was  held,  August 
23,  1824;  present,  G.  M.  Wildey,  D.  G.  1&.  pro  tern,.  Scotehburn, 
A.  G.  Sec'y  Fennell,  G.  G.  Boyd,  G.  Con.  Common,  and  P.  G.'s 
Nelson,  Williams,  Roach  and  Harris.  P.  Grands  Ezekiel  C. 
Gill,  of  No.  2,  and  Samuel  Bickley,  of  No.  3,  were  admitted  to 
membership.  After  sundry  letters  were  received,  read  and  dis- 
posed of,  it  was  announced  that  by  the  demise  of  the  late  Grand 
Secretary  John  P.  Entwisle,  a  vacancy  had  occurred  in  the 
position  of  Representative  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  to 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  when  it  was  resolved  to 
proceed  to  an  election  to  fill  the  vacancy,  and  P.  G.  Charles 
Common  was  duly  elected.  The  committee,  as  indicated  by  the 
4th  resolution  of  April  15,  1824,  submitted  the  form  of  a  consti- 
tution suitable  for  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  in  its 
separate  capacity.  The  Grand  Lodge  then  carefully  considered 
its  provisions  and  approved  it,  and  an  order  was  made  that  a 
<;opy  of  the  proposed  constitution  be  forwarded  .within  one  month 
to  each  of  the  Grand  Lodges  for  concurrence.  The  Grand  Lodge 
omitted  to  direct  the  printing  of  this  document,  and  copies  in  manu- 
script consumed  much  time  in  the  preparation,  hence  there  was 
so  much  delay  that  few,  if  any,  of  the  Grand  Lodges  received  a 
•copy  in  time  to  consider  the  subject  before  the  period  arrived  for 
final  action  at  Baltimore.  The  copy  for  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
New  York  was  not  received  until  January  15,  1825,  when  a 
special  session  was  held  "  to  consider  the  merits  of  the  constitu- 
tion prepared  for  the  government  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United  States."  This  Grand  Body  met  monthly,  and  had  held 
sessions  in  the  preceding  months  of  October,  November  and 
December,  so  that  the  copy  did  not  reach'  New  York  until  after 
the  December  session.  The  presumption  is  fair  that  it  was 
equally  late  in  reaching  Massachusetts.  A  copy,  however, 
reached  Pennsylvania  in  time  to  be  laid  before  a  special  session 
7 


98  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

on  December  16,  1824,  when  on  the  question  of  approval  the 
following  was  adopted :  "  Resolved,  That  our  Representative 
be  informed  that  in  the  opinion  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  the  word 
permanent  in  the  5th  Article  of  the  Constitution  should  be 
stricken  out,  and  the  word  present  inserted,  and  also  that  the 
word  central,  in  the  same  Article,  should  be  expunged."  The 
delay  in  transcribing  the  copies,  doubtless  contributed  to  the 
want  of  harmony  that  prevailed  at  the  period  of  effecting  the 
new  organization.  This  constitution  was  adopted  on  the  15th  of 
January,  1825,  and  will  be  found  in  the  journal,  on  page  70. 

The  third  quarterly  session  was  held  November  22d,  1824 ; 
present,  G.  M.  Wildey,  D.  G.  M.  Welch,  G.  W.  Mitchell,  A.  G. 
Sec'y  Fennell,  G.  G.  Boyd,  G.  Con.  Common,  and  P.  G.'s  McCor- 
mick,  Nelson,  Scotchburn,  Roach,  Harris  and  Bickley.  Past 
Grands  Freeburger  and  Arman,  of  'No.  2,  and  Colt,  of  No  3,  were 
admitted  to  membership.  The  record  of  the  proceedings 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  State's,  from 
its  organization  to  the  close  of  the  last  session,  was  read  by  the 
D.  G.  Master,  and  approved.  Sundry  letters  were  read  and  dis- 
posed of,  among  which  was  one  from  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Penn- 
sylvania, relative  to  the  surreptitious  admission  into  the  Order  of 
a  certain  James  Day,  wrhereupon  a  resolution  was  adopted  pro- 
hibiting his  admission  into  any  lodge  of  the  Order  "  throughout 
the  globe."  This  premature  action  was  afterwards  repudiated, 
when  the  power  belonging  to  a  State  Grand  Lodge  was  better 
understood.  The  routine  business  of  the  Grand  Lodge  having 
been  performed,  Grand  Master  "Wildey  addressed  the  Grand 
Lodge,  informing  the  members  that  his  term  of  office  as  Grand 
Master  was  about  to  expire,  and  that  pursuant  to  notice  previ- 
ously given,  it  now  devolved  on  that  body,  in  its  capacity  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  to  proceed  to  the  election  of  Grand 
Master  and  of  the  other  Grand  Officers.  Previous  to  which, 
however,  the  Grand  Lodge  proceeded  to  consider  the  amendments 
proposed  to  the  constitution  of  the  separate  Grand  Lodge  of  Ma- 
ryland ;  whereupon,  on  motion,  the  amendments  to  the  14th  and 
15th  Articles  were  adopted,  by  which  the  terms  of  service  of  the 
Grand  Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master  and  other  Grand  Officers 
were  fixed  for  one  year,  and  that  they  each  should  be  eligible  for 
re-election.  The  following  amendment  to  the  6th  Article  was 
adopted  :  "  That  the  annual  session  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Mary- 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MD.    AND    THE    U.    S.  99 

land  be  held  on  January  15th,  in  lieu  of  the  22d  of  February  "  : 
the  record  says  the  latter  "  being  the  day  set  apart  for  the  organ- 
ization of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  and  also  the  15th 
of  January  being  the  birthday  of  the  founder  of  Odd  Fellowship  in 
the  United  States."  The  constitution  as  thus  amended,  was  read 
and  approved.  The  Grand  Lodge  went  into  the  election  of 
Grand  Master  by  ballot,  and  there  appearing  an  equal  number 
of  votes  for  P.  G.  Common  and  P.  G.  Scotchburn,  the  G.  M.  gave 
the  casting  vote  in  favor  of  P.  G.  Charles  Common,  of  Franklin 
Lodge,  No.  2,  and  declared  him  duly  elected  Grand  Master  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  for  the  ensuing  term.  The  election 
was  proceeded  with,  when  P.  G.  Thomas  Scotchburn,  of  Columbia 
Lodge,  No.  3,  was  duly  elected  D.  G.  Master,  P.  G.  John  Nelson, 
of  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  was  elected  G.  Warden,  and  P.  G, 
Ezekiel  C.  Gill,  of  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2,  was  elected  G.  Secretary, 
The  G.  M.  elect  then  announced  that  he  should  nominate  P.  G. 
Henry  Harris,  of  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  as  G.  Guardian,  and 
P.  G.  Freeburger,  of  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2,  as  G.  Conductor. 
As  the  business  of  the  Grand  Lodge  was  drawing  to  a  close,  the 
following  was  submitted  and  unanimously  adopted : 

"  Resolved,  that  G.  M.  Wildey,  after  leaving  his  seat,  be  pre- 
sented with  a  medal,  as  a  small  token  of  our  respect  for  his  emi- 
nent services,  his  indefatigable  and  unremitting  zeal  in  spreading 
the  Order  of  Odd  Fellowship  throughout  the  United  States,  and 
his  unexampled  assiduity  and  attention  to  its  best  interests  while 
Grand  Master  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United 
States."  Past  Grands  Common,  Scotchburn  and  Fennell  were 
delegated  to  procure  the  medal. 

After  the  Grand  Lodge  had  arranged  to  visit  Columbia  Lodge, 
No.  3,  on  the  29th  of  the  month,  as  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Mary- 
land, it  closed  the  quarterly  session,  to  open  in  annual  session  on 
January  15, 1825  ;  and  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the 
United  States,  having  thus  arranged  to  organize  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  the  United  States,  as  a  separate  body,  on  February  22,  1825, 
closed  sine  die.  And  thus  terminated  the  first  experiment  to 
organize,  extend  and  govern  a  social  and  benevolent  institution 
which,  divided  into  many  branches,  found  its  way  triumphantly 
into  every  State. 

The  Masonic  fraternity  in  its  Blue  Lodges  of  ancient  renown 
has  never  been  united  under  a  central  government.  It  is  only 


100  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

in  its  less  numerous  branches  that  it  has  attempted  anything  of 
the  kind,  and  that  has  been  since  the  example  set  by  our  Order. 
The  experiment  was  novel  and  had  no  precedent,  but  the  result 
has  shown  the  greatness  of  the  plan.  The  means  set  on  foot  for 
our  organization  extended  in  their  operation  from  February  22, 
1821,  until  November  22, 1824,  inclusive;  a  period  of  three  years 
and  nine  months.  But  the  termination  of  those  labors  in  so 
grand  a  manner  did  not  cause  a  cessation  of  the  undertaking ;  it 
merely  changed  the  nature  of  the  machinery  employed.  Casting 
away  the  clumsy  tools  of  an  obsolete  antiquity,  they  invented  new 
instruments,  required  by  new  conditions,  and  boldly  produced  an 
organism  that  has  no  parallel  among  moral  or  benevolent  institu- 
tions. "When  the  material  of  which  these  workmen  were  com- 
posed is  carefully  regarded,  our  wonder  almost  deepens  into 
reverence.  The  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United 
States  seems  but  a  feeble  power  to  work  out  such  wonders. 
During  its  career  it  received  in  all  but  twenty-eight  members 
into  its  communion ;  of  whom  some  ten  or  twelve  had  to 
bear  the  whole  burden  of  the  adventure ;  head  and  heart  and 
hand  alike  were  busy ;  and  toil  worthy  of  being  classed  with  the 
labors  of  Hercules,  under  the  blessing  of  heaven,  had  its  reward. 
And  thus  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States, 
that  curious  anomaly,  passed  away ;  it  had  done  its  part  and 
made  its  own  history.  The  Order  was  no  longer  local ;  three 
great  States  had  been  brought  in  to  share  the  labor  and  responsi- 
bility, and  that  which  had  been  conlined  to  one  city  was  now  like 
an  infinite  circle,  to  have  its  centre  everywhere,  and  its  space 
limitless.  But  the  body,  at  its  dissolution,  by  a  true  metempsy- 
chosis parted  with  all  its  divine  faculties,  its  living  soul,  to  the 
new  body  to  which  it  gave  existence.  Or,  to  change  the  figure, 
that  which  was  first  in  use  for  the  building  was  not  mere  scaffold- 
ing, but  sound  material,  which  was  only  removed  to  form  an 
essential  part  of  the  building  about  to  be  constructed.  The  little 
band  was  to  assume  a  new  role  and  play  its  part  on  a  greater 
stage ;  some  would  retire,  others  grow  slack  and  lose  their  interest 
in  the  enterprise,  and  one  master-spirit  had  just  gone  down  to  the 
grave ;  but  the  leader  was  alive  and  vigorous,  and  was  to  fulfil 
his  destiny  as  the  hero  of  the  drama.  He  alone  was  to  see  the 
end  and  enjoy  the  victory,  and  his  fame  was  to  be  assured 
ere  the  curtain  should  fall  upon  the  splendid  spectacle. 


JOHN  WELCH. 


CHAPTER    V. 

JOHN    WELCH. 

He  knows  the  compass,  sail  and  oar, 
Or  never  launches  from  the  shore  ; 
Before  he  builds  computes  the  cost, 
And  in  no  proud  pursuit  is  lost. 

—GAY'S  FABLES. 

WELCH,  ENTWISLE,  WILDEY,  are  the  names  written  down 
everywhere  as  the  primary  agents  in  setting  on  foot  the  Order  of 
Odd  Fellowship.  The  first  and  the  last  we  have  not  inscribed 
in  the  order  of  their  eminence,  but  rather  in  the  order  of  the 
succession  of  this  history;  for  WILDEY  was  always  first.  In 
these  names  will  be  found  the  master-spirits  of  the  incipient 
efforts  of  the  first  decade.  We  might  indeed  add  humble  instru- 
ments to  this  number  among  worthy  brothers  of  the  same  era,  did 
the  record  of  the  early  labors  of  Washington  Lodge  remain  for 
our  perusal ;  but  the  original  minute-book  has  for  many  years 
been  missing,  and  not  a  single  trace  of  it  remains.  Hence  the 
career  of  the  early  members  is  unknown,  and  the  transactions  of 
the  lodge  are  buried  in  oblivion ;  the  only  facts  preserved  are 
that  brothers  Welch  and  Wildey  were  presented  with  silver 
medals  for  valuable  services  rendered.  Moving  in  a  sphere 
above  his  lodge,  Welch  was  too  intimately  connected  with  the 
origin  of  the  Order  and  its  early  history  to  be  passed  over  with- 
out honorable  mention.  Tn  fact,  he  has  become  a  necessary  part 
of  those  times  as  a  historical  character.  He  and  his  two  associates 
on  all  occasions  appear  as  primus  inter  pares  ;  and  with  them 
he  was  so  fully  identified  as  to  have  shared  all  their  struggles  in 
the  perilous  times  of  the  Order's  infancy.  To  these,  according 
to  their  several  faculties  and  labors,  belong  the  honors  fit  to  be 
awarded  to  public  benefactors ;  a  title  superior  to  patents  of  no- 
bility. For  what  merit  can  surpass  that  of  those  who  organized 
an  institution  second  to  no  secular  society,  however  venerable  or 
honored  among  men  ?  This  Trio  came  together  by  some  favor- 
able conjunction,  to  unite  as  one  in  a  work  so  great  as  to  require 


(101) 


102  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

that  union,  and  all  the  capacity  which  it  concentrated.  The 
part  performed  by  the  first  person  in  this  order  of  arrangement 
will  now  be  related. 

WELCH    BEFORE    APRIL    19,    1819. 

John  Welch  was  an  Englishman,  born  at  Wolverhampton, 
Lancashire,  in  November,  1792.  His  parents  were  John  J. 
Welch  and  Sarah  his  wife ;  persons  in  humble  life,  but  of  respec- 
tability. Nothing  is  known  of  his  education,  but  when  about 
twelve  years  of  age  he  lost  his  mother,  and  soon  after  was  ap- 
prenticed to  the  business  of  painting  and  plumbing,  in  which  he 
became  proficient.  Upon  attaining  his  majority  he  married,  and 
emigrated  to  the  United  States  as  an  inviting  field  for  employ- 
ment. Seeking  a  home  for  his  young  family,  he  reached  Balti- 
more in  the  month  of  May,  1817,  and  at  once  sought  for  work 
at  his  trade.  His  first  employer  was  a  James  Garni ngham,  a 
fellow-countryman,  with  whom  he  worked  steadily  for  several 
months.  Subsequently  he  formed  a  partnership  with  a  Mr. 
Anderson  for  carrying  on  his  business,  but  the  venture  was  not 
successful.  He  then  accepted  the  position  of  foreman  in  the 
shop  of  a  Mr.  Galloway.  This  proving  to  be  both  agreeable 
and  profitable,  he  continued  in  the  same  service  for  some  twelve 
years.  About  the  year  1829  he  returned  to  England  on  a  visit, 
where  he  remained  several  months  with  his  kindred,  but  in  1830 
revisited  Baltimore,  and  concluded  to  make  that  city  his  per- 
manent residence.  An  increasing  family  of  children  now  gave 
a  fresh  spur  to  his  exertions ;  he  entered  into  business  on  his  own 
account  with  great  zeal  and  energy,  and  soon  earned  that  success 
which  seldom  fails  to  reward  industry  and  integrity  combined 
with  reasonable  skill.  But  we  return  to  his  first  appearance  in 
America,  and  his  connection  with  Wildey. 

He  was  made  an  Odd  Fellow  in  Great  Britain,  before  his  emigra- 
tion, in  some  independent  lodge,  about  which  we  can  only  hazard 
a  supposition  that  it  was  an  obscure  society  of  the  name,  many 
of  which  were  scattered  through  England.  The  date  of  his  initia- 
tion, and  even  the  name  of  the  lodge,  are  unknown.  Soon  after 
his  emigration,  in  1818,  he  made  the  acquaintance  of  Thomas 
Wildey,  in  whose  company  he  spent  many  pleasant  hours  among 
the  strangers  and  strange  scenes  of  a  new  country.  It  would 
seem  that  he  had  not  much  zeal  as  an  Odd  Fellow,  owing  to  the 


JOHN    WELCH.  103 

fact  that  he  knew  but  very  little  about  the  Order,  and  never  had 
been  seriously  enamored  of  it.  At  all  events,  from  Wildey's 
statement,  several  conversations  on  the  subject  passed  between 
them,  in  all  of  which  Welch  showed  little  interest,  and  simply 
asserted  that  he  was  a  member.  When  followed  up  and  pressed 
on  the  subject,  he  at  length  admitted  that  he  was  a  P.  Y.  G.  of 
Birmingham,  England.  The  conclusion  is  that  he  had  other  mat- 
ters of  deeper  moment  for  him  that  filled  his  mind ;  the  duties  of 
a  husband  and  father  were  paramount,  and  he  did  not  feel  the 
same  desire  for  company  which  inflamed  the  childless  Wildey. 
But  his  scruples  were  soon  overcome,  and  we  find  him  as  one  of 
the  original  five  who  met  at  the  "Seven  Stars,''  on  Second 
Street.  How  they  were  brought  together  and  by  whose  exertions 
has  been  before  related,  and  need  not  be  repeated.  On  the  organ- 
ization of  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  Wildey  became  ~N.  G.,  and 
Welch  the  first  Vice  Grand.  Here  the  story  has  a  sudden  gap, 
and  so  remains  untold,  so  far  as  that  lodge  is  concerned,  in  con- 
nection with  the  services  of  this  brother.  That  they  were  valu- 
able is  shown  by  ample  testimony.  Wildey,  at  every  period  of 
his  life,  was  wont  to  speak  of  Welch  in  terms  of  enthusiastic  praise. 
He  often,  in  private  circles,  delighted  to  recount  his  first  meeting 
with  Welch,  and  how  soon  he  began  to  find  him  congenial.  To 
refer  to  the  organization  of  the  Order  and  of  the  part  played  by 
his  friend  on  that  occasion,  he  w^as  never  tired  of  stating  that 
his  presence  and  services  were  such  that  no  one  could  have  supplied 
his  place ;  that  after  his  own  retirement  from  the  chair  of  N.  G., 
his  faithful  coadjutor  was  the  chosen  champion  of  the  lodge,  and 
that  he  was  always  indispensable  in  fixing  its  policy.  On  the 
subject  of  his  private  efforts  he  was  equally  prone  to  break  out 
in  commendation.  He  held  him  a  counsellor  who  was  equally 
bold  and  prudent ;  sometimes  checking  him  in  his  ardor,  and  at 
other  times  suggesting  difficulties  and  the  best  means  of  avoiding 
or  removing  them.  Again,  full  of  hope,  and  with  confidence  in 
his  colleague,  he  gave  free  scope  to  his  vigor  by  the  \varmest  en- 
couragement. It  would  seem  that  he  was  captivated  by  the  mar- 
vellous energy  of  the  founder,  and  studied  his  nature  that  he  might 
the  better  inform  his  judgment.  Thus,  he  was  willing  to  subordi- 
nate himself,  and  exhibit  the  great  leader  as  author  of  everything; 
retaining  only  the  affectionate  but  responsible  post  of  adviser. 
Of  Duncan,  Cheathem  and  Rushworth,  nothing  is  known  after 


104  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

the  26th  of  April,  1819;  they  disappear  and  never  again  rise  to 
the  surface.  We  may  be  tolerably  certain  that  there  was  good  rea- 
son for  this  silence.  We  have  no  doubt  they  were  migratory  par- 
ties, who  did  not  remain  to  share  the  fortunes  of  the  lodge ;  or  if 
any  remained,  they  were  such  material  as  were  not  worthy  of 
special  mention.  'No  doubt  the  lodge  had  many  accessions  from 
the  English,  who  would  naturally  seek  the  society  of  their  coun- 
trymen; but  of  these,  few  would  long  be  stationary,  and  others, 
on  trial,  would  be  found  unwrorthy. 

Of  those  prior  to  1821,  we  have  the  names  of  Couth,  Larkam, 
Boyd  and  Entwisle;  of  these,  Boyd  was  a  fine  acquisition,  and 
Entwisle  was  of  the  greatest  importance.  Then  follow  Win 
Chester,  Wilson,  Mitchell,  Seed,  McCormick,  Nelson,  Scotchburn 
and  others,  who  are  only  known  as  members  of  the  body  of  Past 
Grands,  all  Englishmen ;  so  that  a  very  small  minority,  if  more 
than  three  or  four,  were  of  the  native  population.  It  follows  that 
for  several  years  the  institution  was  British,  and  an  importation 
not  yet  made  acceptable  to  Americans.  The  struggle  between 
the  old  conservative  and  the  new  reformatory  elements  has  been 
fully  set  out  in  other  parts  of  this  volume.  The  difficulty  then  of 
a  firm  foundation  for  the  Order  was  greater  by  reason  of  its  being 
of  foreign  origin  and  under  foreign  auspices.  Prudence  as  well 
as  vigor  were  requisite ;  this  was  the  chief  feature  in  the  character 
of  Welch,  and  it  was  never  found  wanting  in  any  emergency. 
At  the  meeting  of  Past  Grands  held  February  7th,  1821,  Welch 
was  again  at  the  side  of  Wildey.  The  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland 
and  of  the  United  States  was  then  organized,  and  Welch  became 
the  first  Grand  Secretary.  Here  he  follows  his  friend  into  a  new 
and  broader  field,  requiring  all  his  capacity  to  give  him  efficient 
aid.  The  duties  of  this  office  he  performed  for  the  space  of  one 
year,  a  full  term.  He  was,  on  the  22d  of  February,  1823,  duly 
elected  and  installed  as  Deputy  Grand  Master,  which  he  held 
until  the  15th  day  of  January,  1825,  when  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
the  United  States  was  organized.  He  was  then  unanimously 
elected  the  first  Deputy  Grand  Master  (now  Sire)  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  United  States,  the  duties  of  which  he  faithfully  dis- 
charged ;  his  last  appearance  in  that  character  being  on  Monday, 
May  4th,  1829,  when  he  refused  longer  to  hold  the  position. 

From  this  time  he  appears  no  more  on  the  journal,  or  in  any 
way  connected  with  this  history ;  but  he   had  carved  his  name 


JOHN    WELCH.  105 

upon  the  foundation,  and  on  each  upward  layer,  until  he  saw  it 
deeply  graven  in  the  last  rough  ashler  which  lay  upon  the  sum- 
mit. It  was  not  his  life-work,  as  it  was  that  of  Wildey.  He  had 
borne  the  heat  and  burden  of  the  day,  and  the  field  was  won ; 
henceforth  there  was  much  to  do,  but  it  lay  with  others,  then 
present  and  to  come,  to  build  on  the  foundations.  He  foresaw 
that  even  his  great  leader  must  soon  retire,  or  submit  himself 
to  others  than  himself  for  guidance,  and  that  the  new  machinery 
would  effectually  do  the  work.  Faithful  counsellor!  he  had 
stood  by  and  advised  his  friend  in  every  hour  of  darkness,  doubt 
and  disaster ;  he  had  shared  all  his  hopes  and  all  his  fears.  He 
had  met  him  at  the  "  Seven  Stars,"  with  but  three  more  for  com- 
pany ;  he  followed  him  from  public-house  to  public-house,  and 
from  one  hall  to  another,  until  he  sat  down  with  him  in  the  first 
Odd  Fellows'  temple  on  Gay  Street.  He  was  in  the  contest  of 
Wildey  with  Jackson,  and  clung  to  Wildey ;  and  he  saw  two 
brawny  children,  born  of  their  mutual  energy — Franklin  and 
Columbia  Lodges  —  begin  a  vigorous  existence.  He  devised 
with  him  and  Entwisle  the  plan  of  taking  the  old  charter  from 
Washington  Lodge  and  giving  it  into  hands  wiser  and  abler  to 
maintain  it.  He  saw  Wildey  starting  from  Baltimore  to  go  the 
then  great  distance  to  Boston,  and  after  many  counsels,  bade  him 
God-speed  upon  his  errand  ;  and  he,  with  Entwisle,  received  the 
triumphant  trophies  of  Wildey's  prowess  in  the  applications  from 
New  York  and  Pennsylvania,  that  vindicated  their  estimate  of  the 
coining  man.  He  saw  order  arising  out  of  confusion,  and  the 
native  population  lending  its  aid  to  perfect  and  carry  on  the 
enterprise.  A  central  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  begins 
to  open  its  arms  to  embrace  a  continent.  He  is  there  to  give  his 
prudence  and  energy  to  the  first  five  years  of  those  preparatory 
movements  that  were  necessary  for  a  final  victory ;  and  now  he 
retires  into  modest  seclusion,  before  the  day  when  an  admiring 
brotherhood  shall  give  him  his  meed  of  gratitude  and  praise. 
True  to  his  friend  to  the  very  last,  and  in  the  very  sensitive  mat- 
ter of  his  own  great  merit  and  services,  he  nobly  hides  himself 
away,  and  leaves  Wildey  to  wear  his  jewels  in  his  well-won  crown. 
Who,  from  this  narrative,  can  fail  to  see  the  modesty  and  dignity 
of  this  inestimable  brother — the  Mentor  of  the  early  days  ? 

In  all  the  great  events  we  have  narrated  he  was  a  necessary 
agent.     He  was  superior  to  Wildey  in  manners,  education  and 


106  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

social  position.  His  thoughts  tended  to  religion,  and  this  ten- 
dency he  impressed  on  all  around  him ;  in  later  life  he  became 
an  ornament  and  support  in  one  of  the  Christian  churches. 
Thus  he  had  other  associations  and  other  aims,  his  family,  his 
church,  his  social  relations,  outside  of  the  Order.  He  alone  was 
not  given  to  the  convivial  bowl  or  the  hilarious  song,  but  in  the 
midst  of  the  motley  crowd,  furnished  the  dignity  and  decency 
that  gave  color  to  all  that  was  done.  He  saw  in  it  from  the 
first  the  dawn  of  a  moral  movement  for  the  men  who  came 
within  its  influence,  and  no  one  more  rejoiced  than  he  to  see  it 
spurning  the  public-house  and  turning  the  "  Host "  out  of  the 
lodge-room.  He  it  was  that  helped  to  inspire  young  Entwisle 
with  the  lofty  sentiments  that  glow  in  the  pages  of  the  gifted 
Secretary.  He  left  the  Order  indeed  in  its  prosperity,  but  he  had 
never  faltered  or  given  way  when  the  burden  of  its  success  lay 
upon  him.  Grand  Secretary  Kidgely  well  remembers  his  atten- 
dance at  the  first  dedication  of  the  Hall  on  Gay  Street;  the 
deep  interest  he  manifested;  his  countenance  beaming  with 
kindness  and  good  humor;  his  gentle  manner,  and  his  manifest 
pride  and  pleasure  at  witnessing  the  proud  day  when  the  Order 
took  its  place  among  the  institutions  of  the  country.  Many 
pleasant  hours  were  spent  by  the  young  member  conversing  with 
the  veteran  of  the  early  days,  continuing  from  time  to  time  until 
the  gentle  brother,  worn  out  by  infirmities  more  than  by  age, 
expired  in  the  year  1851,  full  of  honor,  and  surrounded  by 
weeping  friends. 

THE   NESTOR   OF   THE    ENTERPRISE. 

His  work  more  than  that  of  any  other  will  bear  analysis. 
Wildey  all  energy,  Entwisle  all  imagination  and  invention,  but 
tempered  by  a  sobriety  beyond  his  years,  were  his  coadjutors. 
To  restrain,  direct  and  counsel,  such  were  particularly  the  parts 
allotted  him.  The  difficulties  were  of  great  magnitude.  Wash- 
ington Lodge  was  the  first  great  obstacle.  The  members  were 
disposed  to  cling  to  their  precious  charter,  and  retain  the  honor 
it  conferred  upon  them ;  the  disposition  of  Wildey  led  him  to 
conceive  that  it  should  be  demanded  for  the  common  good ;  but 
Welch,  by  showing  the  effect  of  such  action,  induced  him  to  seek 
it  by  other  and  gentler  means,  which  could  alone  succeed.  The 
same  was  true  when  Maryland  was  called  upon  for  the  same 


JOHN    WELCH.  107 

charter  to  be  given  to  a  federal  head.  The  quiet  wisdom  that 
dictated  the  first  cession  of  the  charter  again  interposed,  and  by 
the  potent  influence  of  personal  solicitation  and  persistent  argu- 
ment, made  the  second  cession  a  necessary  consequence.  In  all 
this  no  one  has  questioned  that  he  and  the  Secretary  were  the 
master-spirits  who  set  Wildey  on  the  track  that  led  him  to  the 
federal  compact.  To  such  a  man  as  Wildey,  when  left  to  him- 
self, moderation  was  impossible,  for  his  energy  was  riotous,  and 
sometimes  tended  to  excess ;  it  was  therefore  necessary  that  a 
bridle  should  be  put  upon  such  reckless  tendencies.  At  times 
indeed  his  zeal  far  outran  his  discretion,  as  was  illustrated  by  his 
support  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  against  its  rightful 
superior;  when  he  had  to  retrace  his  steps  and  make  a  proper 
submission.  These  were  lessons  by  which  he  was  not  slow  to 
profit.  They  sent  him  frequently  to  his  advisers,  who  thus  be- 
came more  necessary  to  him.  On  such  occasions  he  leaned 
upon  his  early  friend  with  a  confidence  that  was  never  shaken, 
and  never  betrayed.  His  moderation  appears  in  his  official 
documents  as  a  conspicuous  element ;  that  moderation  was  the 
spirit  of  Welch,  infused  into  the  leader  by  the  teachings  of  his 
sagacious  and  unselfish  minister.  It  toned  down  his  roughness 
and  put  a  finer  edge  upon  his  earnestness ;  so  that  often  it  might 
be  said  that  the  voice  was  that  of  Wildey  but  the  matter  was 
that  of  Welch,  the  politic  and  wary  pilot  who  had  given  him 
the  chart  for  his  discourse.  In  a  word,  Wildey  was  the  heart 
and  hand  of  the  undertaking,  Welch  and  Entwisle  were  the 
head,  and  the  latter  also  the  executive  moral  power  of  the 
movement. 

Among  the  select  three,  Welch  stands  on  the  right  hand  of 
Wildey,  a  worthy  supporter,  who  has  earned  his  place  and  will 
keep  it.  On  the  left  of  Wildey,  as  will  appear  in  the  succeeding 
narrative,  will  be  found  one  as  worthy  and  as  full  of  interest, 
the  intellectual  member  of  the  trio,  who  will  be  equally  entitled 
to  support  the  central  figure  of  the  group — Entwisle.  But  this 
chapter  must  come  to  a  close  We  have  extricated  a  brother  from 
the  neglect  of  many  years,  and  now  leave  it  to  a  noble  Order  to 
greet  with  fitting  honors  this  portraiture  of  its  first  Deputy 
Grand  Sire,  the  friend  of  Wildey,  virtue  and  benevolence,  a 
true  knight  of  the  great  Order  of  Odd  Fellowship. 


CHAPTER  VI. 

THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND. 

By  the  action  taken  at  the  November  session  of  1824,  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States  divided  itself 
into  two  bodies ;  one  of  them  assumed  authority  over  the  whole 
Order,  through  the  several  Grand  Lodges ;  the  other  subsided  into 
a  State  Grand  Lodge,  having  only  a  local  authority  within  the 
State  of  Maryland.  As  previously  arranged,  the  first  annual  ses- 
sion of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  convened  January  15th, 
1825,  at  the  hall  on  the  corner  of  Calvert  and  Water  Streets. 
The  members  present  were  Grand  Master  Wildey,  Deputy  Grand 
Master  Welch,  Grand  Warden  Mitchell,  Assistant  Grand  Secre- 
tary Fennell,  Grand  Guardian  Boyd,  Grand  Conductor  Common, 
and  Past  Grands  Seed,  Nelson,  Scotchburn,  Williams,  Roach, 
Gill,  Freeburger,  Arman  and  Colt.  After  the  Grand  Lodge  had 
been  formally  opened  in  the  Grand  Lodge  Degree,  it  was  opened 
in  the  Scarlet  Degree,  to  admit  brothers  of  that  rank  to  witness 
the  installation  of  the  Grand  Officers.  Several  Yice  Grands, 
Past  Yice  Grands  and  Noble  Grands  availed  themselves  of  the 
privilege.  The  Grand  Master,  in  a  suitable  address,  set  before 
them  the  new  condition  of  affairs.  He  stated  that  he  was  in  pos- 
session of  a  charter  for  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  granted 
by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States ;  that  he  was  author- 
ized to  present  it,  and  would  do  so  during  the  session.  The 
constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge  was  then  read  ;  when  G.  M. 
Wildey  announced  the  arrival  of  the  time  when  it  became  neces- 
sary for  him  to  retire  from  the  office  which,  by  the  preference  of 
his  brethren,  had  been  entrusted  to  him  during  the  last  four  years. 
He  gave  a  cursory  history  of  the  body  during  his  term,  and  hav- 
ing commended  his  faithful  associates  for  the  powerful  aid  they 
had  rendered,  did  not  hesitate  to  indulge  in  blame  of  the  Past 
Grands  who  had  shrunk  from  the  performance  of  their  duty. 

The   following    Grand    Officers   were   then   duly   installed : 
Charles  Common,  G.  Master;  Thomas  Scotchburn,  D.  G.  M.; 

(108) 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  109 

John  Nelson,  G.  W. ;  and  E.  C.  Gill,  G.  Sec'y.  Short  addresses 
were  made  by  the  officers.  Thomas  Wildey,  as  G.  M.  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  directed  the  Grand  Charter 
to  be  read.  This  was  done  by  Deputy  Grand  Master  Welch. 

CHARTER  OF  THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND. 

ORDER  OF  INDEPENDENT  ODD  FELLOWS. 

To  all  whom  it  may  concern : 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  held  in  the  city  of  Bal- 
timore, in  the  State  of  Maryland,  doth  hereby  grant  this  Grand 
Charter  to  five  Past  Grands  of  the  Order  of  Independent  Odd 
Fellows,  residing  in  the  State  of  Maryland,  to  form  a  Grand  Lodge 
for  the  said  State,  for  the  encouragement  and  support  of  brothers 
of  the  said  Order  when  on  travel  or  otherwise.  And  the  said 
Grand  Lodge  being  duly  formed,  is  hereby  authorized  to  grant 
Warrants  or  Dispensations  to  true  and  faithful  brothers  to  open 
lodges  according  to  the  laws  of  Odd  Fellowship,  and  to  admin- 
ister to  Past  Grands  all  the  privileges  and  benefits  appertaining 
to  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  to  enact  by-laws  for  the  government 
of  their  lodge.  Provided,  always,  that  the  said  Grand  Lodge  do 
act  according  to  the  Order,  in  conjunction  with  and  obedience  to 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States ;  adhering  to  and  support- 
ing the  constitution  thereof,  in  default  whereof  this  charter  may 
be  suspended  or  taken  away,  at  the  discretion  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  the  United  States.  And  further,  the  Grand  Lodge,  in  consid- 
eration of  the  due  performance  of  the  above,  do  bind  themselves 
to  repair  all  damages  or  destruction  of  the  charter,  whether  by 
fire  or  other  accident;  provided  sufficient  proof  be  given  that 
there  is  no  illegal  concealment  or  wilful  destruction  of  the  same. 
In  witness  whereof  we  have  displayed  the  colors  of  our  Order  and 
subscribed  our  names,  and  affixed  the  seal  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
the  United  States,  this  twenty-second  day  of  February,  A.  D.  one 
thousand  eight  hundred  and  twenty-five. 

THOMAS  WILDEY,  G.  M.  WILLIAM  WILLIAMS,  G.  S. 

JOHN  WELCH,  D.  G.  M.  THOMAS  MITCHELL,  G.  G. 

CHARLES  COMMON,  Rep.  of  Maryland. 

MAURICE  FENNELL,  Proxy  of  Massachusetts. 

THOMAS  SCOTCHBURN,  Proxy  of  New  York. 

JOHN  BOYD,  Proxy  of  Pennsylvania. 

The  Grand  Charter  having  been  read,  M.  W.  Grand  Master 
Wildey  delivered  the  following  address : 

Most    Worthy  Grand  Master,  Right    Worthy  Deputy  Grand 
Master,  Grand  Officers  and  Past  Grands  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  Maryland: 
On  this  highly  important  occasion  I  have  the  honor  to  appear 

before  you  as  the  bearer  of  the  legal  instrument  just  read  in  your 


110  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

hearing ;  which  conveys  to  your  respectable  body  all  the  rights 
and  privileges  of  a  Grand  Lodge  of  the  Order  of  Independent 
Odd  Fellows.  The  Grand  Charter  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Mary- 
land and  of  the  United  States  having  been  vested  solely  in  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  a  body  composed  of  officers 
and  representatives  of  the  several  State  Grand  Lodges,  has 
granted  this  charter  to  the  officers  and  members  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Maryland,  in  consideration  of  the  concession  made  by 
that  Grand  Lodge  for  the  general  welfare  of  the  Order,  in  re- 
signing all  claim  or  title  to  the  charter  under  which  you  have 
hitherto  conducted  your  business,  and  in  taking  rank  in  common 
with  the  other  State  Grand  Lodges.  You  will  find  this  Grand 
Charter  contains  clauses  to  that  effect,  and  I  now  deliver  it 
into  your  keeping  as  your  warrant  of  authority.  It  is  a  source 
of  unfeigned  gratification  to  me,  as  it  is  to  the  Grand  Lodge  I 
here  represent,  to  find  your  body  in  so  flourishing  a  condition ; 
which  enables  me  to  look  forward  with  the  most  cheering  antici- 
pations to  a  successful  future;  especially  so,  in  view  of  the 
unanimity  and  cordiality  which  are  so  strikingly  manifested 
among  you.  By  this  charter  the  powrer  is  secured  to  you  to 
govern  the  Order  in  this  State ;  it  places  your  local  affairs  at 
your  own  disposal,  to  be  acted  upon  according  to  your  own  sense 
of  prudence  and  discretion,  but  requiring  you  always  to  adhere 
to  the  constitution.  The  Grand  Officers  having  been  instructed 
in  their  respective  duties,  will  now  proceed  in  the  faithful  dis- 
charge of  them  ;  and  it  will  afford  me  great  pleasure,  at  any  time, 
to  render  any  assistance  in  my  power,  by  explanation  and  advice. 
And  now  that  you  have  begun  so  well,  it  is  my  wish  that  you 
may  continue  in  the  same  course ;  that  you  may  increase  in 
numbers  and  respectability,  and  improve  in  the  knowledge  and 
practice  of  the  principles  of  the  Order,  and  be  always  the  pride 
of  our  fraternity,  as  you  wrill  be  regarded  the  corner-stone  of  its 
institution. 

The  pithy  and  practical  nature  of  this  address  commends  it 
as  a  rare  model  of  force  and  condensation.  These  few  words,  so 
well  chosen,  covered  the  whole  ground  of  the  new  situation,  and 
left  nothing  to  be  added  which  would  have  made  it  more  suitable 
than  it  was.  The  lack  of  the  presence  of  this  inestimable  quality 
has  often  weakened  or  broken  down  the  interest  which  naturally 
belongs  to  important  occasions.  This  brevity  sits  well  upon  a 
man  of  action  like  Wildey,  who  was  of  that  kind  who  more 
often  strike  than  speak.  The  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  under 
the  new  warrant  was  then  ready  for  business.  Its  first  action 
was  one  of  gratitude.  G.  M.  Common  arose,  and  turning  to 
Past  Grand  Master  Wildey,  began  an  address.  In  words  of 


THE  GEAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  Ill 

eulogy  he  presented  to  him  a  token  of  the  general  coniidence. 
It  was  a  splendid  "  breast-plate,"  the  gift  of  the  members  of  the 
Grand  Lodge.  The  Grand  Master  in  his  answer  expressed  his 
high  estimate  of  this  demonstration.  After  providing  for  a 
Mitre  for  the  Grand  Master  of  Maryland  as  additional  regalia, 
the  session  closed.  Thus  a  separate  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland 
at  length  rises  to  our  view.  Washington  Lodge  was  at  first 
everything ;  it  was  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  and  also  a  subordinate  or  working 
lodge.  Its  first  division  left  Washington  Lodge  the  first  subor- 
dinate, thus  dividing  the  power  into  two  parts ;  the  next  division 
left  three  units ;  the  two  last  being  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United  States  and  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland.  Independence 
was  secured  by  orderly  rank  and  relation,  and  the  ONE  had 
become  THREE.  About  six  years  were  required  for  this  elimina- 
tion. A  glance  discovers  the  magnitude  of  the  undertaking ;  its 
delicate  nature  is  apparent.  We  who  live  after  the  event  find  it 
all  very  easy  and  natural ;  but  the  solution  was  a  discovery ;  its 
originators  full  of  practical  genius. 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  held  its  first  quarterly  session 
on  April  15th,  1825.  It  had  eight  officers :  two  Past  Grands  were 
present,  and  five  were  absent,  this  makes  a  total  of  fifteen  mem- 
bers in  all.  At  this  meeting  P.  G.  Clements,  of  No.  2,  was  ad- 
mitted by  the  usual  vote.  The  subordinate  lodges  were  advised 
to  pass  a  by-law,  "  that  no  member  shall  be  eligible  to  the  office 
of  Noble  Grand  until  he  has  received  the  degrees  in  the  book." 
They  were  also  asked  to  pass  a  by-law,  providing  "  that  any  mem- 
ber who  might  fall  in  arrears  one  quarter,  should  not  be  entitled 
to  receive  any  benefits  for  one  month  after  the  arrears  were  paid." 
The  quarterly  password  and  explanation  wrere  selected,  as  before, 
by  a  vote  of  the  body.  Certain  amendments  proposed  to  the  lec- 
ture of  the  Koyal  Purple  Degree,  by  P.  G.  M.  Wildey,  were 
adopted.  The  second  quarterly  session  was  held  on  July  19th, 
1825,  with  the  attendance  of  but  five  members,  all  officers.  It 
was  provided  that  the  subordinate  lodges  pass  a  by-law,  "  that  no 
brother  be  eligible  for  the  chair  of  the  N.  G.  unless  he  has  served 
in  the  chair  of  the  Y.  G."  The  third  quarterly  session  was  held 
October  18th,  1825.  Of  twenty  members,  thirteen  were  present. 
Here,  for  the  first  time,  the  minutes  recognized  the  titles  of  Grand 
Sire  and  Deputy  Grand  Sire.  This  change  of  title  was  infor- 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

mally  made ;  the  theory  of  the  manner  of  the  alteration  will 
appear  elsewhere.  No  authority  for  it  is  to  be  found  in  any 
reported  action  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  KICK- 
AKD  MAKLEY,  of  No.  2,  appeared,  and  was  duly  elected  and  ad- 
mitted as  a  member.  At  this  session  the  Grand  Sire  announced 
the  reception  of  the  Patriarchal  Degree  from  England  ;  the  new 
degree  was  then  conferred  on  four  of  the  Past  Grands. 

An  adjourned  meeting  was  held  on  November  18th,  1825. 
The  19th  General  Law  was  up  for  consideration,  when  it  was 
decided  that,  by  its  true  construction,  "  each  member  on  visiting 
any  subordinate  lodge  shall  pay  6i  cents."  For  some  reason  not 
explained,  the  second  annual  session  did  not  take  place  on  the 
day  designated  by  the  constitution,  but  was  convened  on  Febru- 
ary 14th,  1826.  Present,  the  officers  and  eight  Past  Grands ;  two 
of  the  latter  were  elected  and  admitted.  During  the  session  P. 
G.  Eoach  was  promptly  fined  for  "  disrespect  to  the  chair."  The 
G.  Secretary  stated  that  Columbia  Lodge  had  never  made  a  report, 
when  that  officer  was  directed  to  call  on  that  lodge  for  full  state- 
ments from  December  17th,  1823,  and  regular  quarterly  reports 
thereafter.  The  eligibility  of  a  P.  G.  for  G.  Master  wTas  then 
fully  discussed.  G.  Sire  Wildey  offered  the  following,  which  was 
passed  by  a  vote  of  eleven  to  nine :  "  Resolved,  that  all  members 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  are  eligible  to  the  office  of  M.  W.  G.  M." 
But  immediately  afterwards  it  was  unanimously  determined 
"  that  no  member  shall  be  eligible  for  the  office  of  M.  W.  G.  M. 
unless  he  has  served  in  three  elective  offices  in  a  subordinate 
lodge."  Several  Scarlet  Degree  members  were  present  as  visitors. 
Charles  Common  was  re-elected  G.  Master.  A  committee,  of 
which  P.  G.  Boyd  was  chairman,  was  required  to  procure  a  suit- 
able room  for  the  use  of  the  three  subordinate  lodges.  At  this 
time  the  Grand  Lodge  and  Washington  and  Franklin  Lodges 
convened  at  the  intersection  of  Calvert  and  Water  Streets 
and  Cheapside,  in  what  was  formerly  known  as  St.  John's  Hall ; 
and  Columbia  Lodge  met  at  the  corner  of  Bridge  (Gay) 
and  Jones  (Front)  Streets,  in  the  parlors  of  Bro.  Wildey  ?s  dwell- 
ing, which  that  lodge  had  fitted  up  in  1824.  The  object  was  to 
unite  all  the  bodies  at  one  meeting-place ;  this  was  ultimately 
effected  by  the  Grand  Lodge  buying  out  the  interest  of  Columbia 
Lodge  in  its  location. 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  113 

Pursuant  to  adjournment,  a  meeting  was  held  on  February 
28,  1826,  when  it  was  agreed  to  have  the  future  meetings  in  the 
room  of  Columbia  Lodge,  and  the  committee  was  instructed  to 
remove  the  emblems  and  Grand  Charter  to  that  place  by  March 
12th  ensuing.  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  3,  made  a  settlement, 
paying  for  charter,  charge  books  and  lawful  percentage,  fifty- 
eight  dollars.  It  seems  that  before  this  time  some  effort  had 
been  made  to  obtain  an  act  of  incorporation  from  the  Legislature 
of  the  State.  G.  Sec'y  Wilson  had  visited  the  General  Assembly 
for  the  purpose,  and  his  expenses  were  paid  at  this  session.  No 
doubt  the  object  was  to  secure  the  power  to  make  contracts  and  hold 
property  in  the  aggregate,  and  thus  to  relieve  a  few  persons 
from  the  burdens  of  contracting  and  being  responsible  for  all ; 
a  very  excellent  expedient,  but  one  that  did  not  succeed  for  a 
number  of  years,  by  reason  of  circumstances  beyond  their  con- 
trol. The  session  adjourned  to  meet  the  14th  March,  in  the 
room  at  Wildey's,  afterwards  called  the  New  Hall.  It  met  at 
that  time  with  the  Grand  Officers  and  a  quorum  of  Past  Grands. 
Its  first  action  was  summary,  and  however  proper,  was  lacking 
in  all  the  elements  of  a  judicial  decision.  P.  G.  Williams  sub- 
mitted a  motion  to  expel  P.  G.  William  Larkam  "  for  disgracing 
the  lodge  and  himself."  Larkam  had  been  suspended  since 
August  22,  1823,  and  no  other  proceedings  appear  upon  the 
record.  There  were  no  charges  or  specifications,  no  examination 
of  witnesses  in  the  presence  of  the  accused ;  but  an  ex  parte 
motion  was  adopted,  and  the  usual  notice  of  the  expulsion 
ordered  to  be  given. 

The  advance  in  the  direction  of  fraternity  was  evidenced  by 
a  novel  proposition.  The  benefit  system  was  the  life  of  the 
Order,  and  the  secret  of  the  power  which  held  it  together. 
But  other  and  higher  objects  were  sought;  the  social  fea- 
ture was  also  an  integral,  and  therefore  necessary  part ;  and 
above  all  rose  the  proud  assumption  of  practices  and  prin- 
ciples tending  to  foster  virtue  and  improve  mankind.  To  meet 
this  view,  G.  Sire  Wildey  proposed  "  that  it  be  recommended  to 
the  subordinate  lodges  to  admit  honorary  members,  on  their 
paying  the  regular  initiation  fee,  but  not  to  be  entitled  to  any 
benefits  from  the  Order."  The  action  had  upon  this  proposal, 
and  the  various  modifications  from  time  to  time  suggested,  will 
subsequently  appear.  The  fiscal  business  of  the  lodges  received 
8 


114  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

due  attention ;  the  keeping  of  the  accounts  and  the  collection 
of  dues  were  then,  as  now,  considered  with  jealous  care ;  it  was 
therefore  recommended  that  the  lodges  should  choose  permanent 
Secretaries  to  take  charge  of  their  financial  affairs,  as  "  highly 
requisite  and  beneficial  to  the  Order."  Without  regarding  the 
previous  notice  required  by  its  constitution,  the  Grand  Lodge 
proceeded  to  alter  the  Article  on  the  election  of  Grand  Officers, 
so  as  to  provide  that  the  elections  should  take  place  at  the  third 
quarterly  session  in  each  year ;  the  officers  to  be  installed  at  the 
annual  session.  A  regulation  was  made  on  the  subject  of  re- 
galia, by  which  a  brother  was  permitted  to  wear  on  his  apron  all 
the  colors  of  the  degrees  he  had  taken ;  and  an  order  was  made, 
instructing  Wardens  when  examining  those  present  at  the 
opening  of  a  lodge,  not  to  rely  upon  the  grip  alone  as  proof  of 
membership,  but  to  examine  in  the  password  also.  Another 
practical  and  essential  order  was  that  requiring  candidates  for 
initiation  to  be  carefully  interrogated  as  to  their  health,  to 
prevent  such  as  had  bodily  infirmities  from  entering  and  be- 
coming burdens  on  the  lodge.  A  suitable  strong  box  wa& 
ordered  to  be  procured  for  the  use  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  It  was 
also  determined  to  celebrate  in  an  appropriate  manner  the  ap- 
proaching anniversary  of  Odd  Fellowship,  and  each  lodge  was 
requested  to  appoint  a  committee  of  three  on  the  subject,  It 
was  determined  that  the  celebration  should  be  limited  to  mem- 
bers of  the  Order. 

From  the  first,  much  importance  was  attached  to  celebrations, 
but  a  diversity  of  opinion  existed  as  to  the  specific  date  which 
should  be  selected  for  the  purpose.  The  general  opinion  tended 
to  the  selection  of  some  day  as  the  anniversary.  A  majority  of 
the  members  of  Washington  Lodge  urged  that  lodge's  natal  day 
as  the  most  appropriate ;  but  the  minority,  and  many  members  of 
the  other  two  lodges,  were  much  divided.  Some  wished  for  the 
selection  of  the  15th  of  January,  Wildey's  birthday,  and  others 
for  the  22d  of  February,  the  birthday  of  Washington,  after 
whom  the  first  lodge  had  been  named.  The  latter  urged  the 
further  reason  that  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  and  of  the 
United  States  was  organized  on  the  22d  of  February.  Indeed, 
there  were  not  wanting  those  who  were  averse  to  the  selection 
of  any  euch  day,  contending  that  such  an  act  would  be  an  inno- 
vation on  ancient  usage,  a  new  feature  for  which  no  warrant 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  115 

could  be  shown.  But  in  practice,  the  first  of  these  suggested 
days  had  been  already  set  apart  by  a  kind  of  general  consent. 
It  is  asserted  that  the  small  band  of  Washington  Lodge,  in  num- 
ber not  exceeding  forty  persons,  assembled  at  Woodward's  in 
Frederick  Street,  on  April  26,  1820,  and  celebrated  the  first 
anniversary  of  that  lodge.  P.  G.  Wildey  was  the  principal 
speaker,  as  it  was  at  this  time  he  retired  from  the  chair  of  N.  G., 
which  he  had  filled  for  four  successive  quarters.  In  1821  the 
same  day  was  again  used  for  the  purpose ;  we  have  no  knowledge 
of  any  of  the  incidents,  save  that  there  was  a  banquet  and  the 
table  was  spread  at  Woodward's.  Nothing  is  known  of  the 
proceedings  in  1822  and  1823,  but  there  was  a  celebration  on  the 
26th  of  April  1824,  at  which  time  G.  Sec'y  Entwisle  was  toasted, 
and  made  a  reply  which  has  been  handed  down  in  these  pages. 
It  will  be  found  in  the  biography  of  that  brother,  and  seems  to 
settle  two  points,  that  there  had  been  four  previous  celebrations 
011  that  day,  and  that  they  were  confined  to  the  members  and 
their  families.  No  doubt  the  latter  idea  was  induced  by  sound 
policy,  as  the  Order  had  neither  the  prestige  nor  the  capacity  for 
making  a  respectable  appearance  before  the  community. 

At  the  time  when  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  was 
separated  from  Maryland,  it  left  whatever  it  had  of  property  in 
the  exclusive  possession  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland.  This 
consisted  principally  of  regalia,  emblems  and  books ;  no  schedule 
was  made,  no  formal  transfer  of  possession ;  but  it  was  retained 
by  its  new  owners  as  a  matter  of  course.  The  cash  balance  was 
$16.68|.  The  accounts  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  in 
the  first  year  of  its  separate  existence  were :  Balance  on  hand, 
$16.681;  receipts,  $102.50;  total,  $119.181.  Expenditures, 
$191.06i  ;  balance  due  the  Treasurer,  $T1.87i  From  which  it 
appears  that  the  first  year  of  the  separate  Grand  Lodge  of  Mary- 
land was  financially  a  failure. 

The  first  quarterly  session  of  the  second  year  was  held  on 
April  14th,  1826,  when  the  four  Grand  Officers,  G.  S.  Wildey, 
P.  D.  G.  M.  Welch,  and  nine  Past  Grands  were  present.  P.  G. 
Theirle,  of  No.  3,  was  admitted.  The  first  business  was  to  order 
each  lodge  in  the  State  to  procure  a  suitable  seal  as  soon  as  pos- 
sible, and  to  send  proof  impressions  to  the  Grand  Lodge.  It 
must  not  be  supposed  that  the  subordinates  had  no  seals  before 
that  time,  but  this  action  was  to  secure  uniformity,  and  put  the 


116  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

matter  in  proper  working  shape.  The  resolution  offered  at  the 
last  session,  by  G.  Sire  Wildey,  to  amend  the  general  lawrs  in 
such  a  manner  as  to  permit  honorary  membership  in  the  lodges, 
was  properly  referred.  The  subject  of  conferring  degrees  on 
Sunday  had  been  brought  before  the  Grand  Lodge  long  before, 
by  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  3,  but  the  petition  which  asked  the  pro- 
hibition of  the  practice  by  that  body  was  intentionally  ignored, 
and  excluded  from  the  record.  The  older  members  were  averse 
to  alteration,  and  thought  that  so  radical  a  change  would  be 
unsafe  and  unpopular.  But  they  were  mistaken,  and  the  peti- 
tioners, having  more  regard  for  present  prosperity  than  ancient 
usage,  became  only  the  more  zealous  after  their  failure.  They 
saw  the  damaging  effect  of  the  practice  upon  the  reputation  of 
the  Order.  Accordingly,  armed  with  facts  and  arguments,  they 
presented  the  same  request  at  this  session,  and  effected  their  pur- 
pose. It  was  promptly  determined  that  the  degrees  should  be 
delivered  every  Friday  fortnight,  in  place  of  every  Sunday  fort- 
night ;  the  hour  of  attendance  to  be  the  same  as  with  the  subor- 
dinate lodges.  It  was  also  "  ordered  that  the  fourth  (G.  E.)  degree 
be  read  "  ;  surely  no  very  onerous  task,  when  the  whole  of  it  was  a 
simple  fragment,  with  so  little  substance  as  to  be  scarcely 
worth  the  trouble. 

A  special  session  was  called  to  consider  a  charge  made  against 
P.  N.  G.  Daniel  Weaver,  of  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2.  It  met  on 
May  26th,  1826,  P.  D.  G.  M.  Scotchburn  presiding.  The  speci- 
fications were  stated,  "  that  the  accused  had  given  the  quarterly 
password  to  a  visiting  brother  from  Pennsylvania."  The  G.  M- 
read  the  obligations  of  the  first,  second  and  third  degrees  as  they 
then  stood.  P.  G.  Weaver,  who  was  present,  was  then  called  on 
for  his  defence.  He  admitted  the  truth  of  the  charge,  but  excused 
himself  on  the  score  of  his  ignorance  of  his  duty  in  the  premises. 
He  then  retired.  It  was  moved  that  the  brother  do  "  receive  a 
severe  reprimand  from  the  Grand  Lodge."  G.  W.  Marley  moved 
to  amend,  by  making  the  motion  to  read  that  P.  G.  Weaver 
"  should  be  expelled."  There  was  much  discussion,  and  the  vote 
being  by  ball  ballots,  the  motion  as  amended  was  lost,  and  the 
brother  was  acquitted.  This  is  the  first  brief  record  of  the  an- 
cient manner  of  conducting  a  trial  before  a  Grand  Lodge.  It 
would  seem  that  but  little  form  was  observed,  and  the  summary 
proceedings  left  but  a  slight  chance  for  escape  to  the  accused 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  117 

party,  unless  the  prevailing  sentiment  was  favorable  to  his 
acquittal. 

In  this  case  the  accused  was  tried  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  of 
which  he  was  not  a  member.  Nothing  could  be  more  irregular 
or  unjust  than  such  n  mode  of  procedure,  yet  we  are  assured  that 
this  was  the  usual  mode  of  dealing  with  such  cases.  By  this  very 
method,  Humphreys,  Petherick  and  Larkam  were  convicted  and 
expelled ;  the  result  might  have  been  different  had  provision 
been  made  either  for  review  or  appeal,  but  there  was  no  such 
check  upon  the  power  of  the  Grand  Body.  The  specific  com- 
plaint against  Weaver,  when  considered  in  connection  with  the 
manner  in  which  lodge  business  was  then  conducted,  was  simply 
ridiculous.  Some  five  years  afterwards,  when  P.  G.  S.  Kennedy 
was  initiated,  the  N.  G.  instructed  him  in  the  quarterly  password, 
from  the  chair,  and  in  the  hearing  of  all  present,  members  and 
visitors  alike.  The  experience  of  others  verifies  his  statement,  and 
such  was  no  doubt  the  practice  in  the  lodges  at  that  time.  This 
same  Weaver  afterwards  became  Grand  Secretary. 

On  the  26th  day  of  April,  1826,  an  effort  was  made  to  cele- 
brate the  anniversary  of  the  Order.  For  this  purpose  the  Grand 
Officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  and  the  Grand 
Officers  of  Pennsylvania  were  invited  and  were  in  attendance. 
We  have  no  particulars  of  the  occasion  save  that  it  was  celebrated 
"  in  a  becoming  manner,"  and  that  "  an  elegant  and  sumptuous 
collation  was  prepared  and  partaken  of  by  the  members  and  vis- 
itors " ;  after  the  cloth  was  removed,  the  Grand  Sire  concluded 
his  address  with  the  following :  "  The  26^A  of  April,  our  guests, 
and  Odd  Fellowship  throughout  the  world" 

The  second  quarterly  session  of  the  second  year  was  held  on 
July  18,  1826.  P.  G.'s  Thomas  Baker,  of  No.  1 ;  Joel  Wright, 
of  No.  1,  and  Daniel  Weaver,  of  No.  2,  were  admitted  to  mem- 
bership. In  all  cases  there  wras  a  vote  by  ballot,  electing  or 
rejecting  the  candidate.  Weaver  had  two  black  balls.  This 
led  to  an  inquiry,  and  there  was  a  discussion  upon  the 
legality  of  the  use  of  ball  ballots  for  such  a  purpose.  To  end 
the  discussion,  on  motion  of  G.  W.  Marley,  the  vote  was  disre- 
garded, and  the  brother  admitted  upon  the  faith  of  his  certificate. 
At  this  meeting  three  of  the  leading  members,  Marley,  Welch 
and  Nelson,  w^ere  fined  for  not  giving  the  password  to  the  Grand 
Warden.  A  special  session  was  held  on  September  the  5th, 


118  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP, 

1826,  for  the  purpose  of  securing  the  passage  of  an  act  of  incor- 
poration of  the  Grand  Lodge  from  the  State.  Present,  G.  M. 
Common,  D.  G.  M.  Brice,  G.  W.  Marley,  G.  Sec.  Wilson,  G.  Con. 
Freeburger,  P.  G.  M.  Scotchburn,  G.  Sec.  Williams,  of  G.  L.  U.  S., 
and .  nine  Past  Grands.  Tired  of  waiting  for  the  slow  action  of 
the  Legislature,  it  was  at  length  concluded  to  enter  the  field  of 
politics,  and  send  men  who  would  represent  Odd  Fellowship  and 
get  them  an  act  of  incorporation.  The  object  having  been 
stated,  the  following  resolutions  were  offered  and  unanimously 
adopted. 

Resolved,  1st.  That  we  will  support  those,  and  those  only, 
who  will  pledge  themselves  to  make  use  of  their  influence  and 
talents  in  behalf  of  this  society,  so  that  we  may  obtain  a  charter 
from  the  General  Assembly  at  the  next  session. 

2d.  That  we  make  choice  of  John  S.  Tyson  and  E.  Purviance, 
Esqrs.,  in  whose  behalf  we  will  use  all  fair  and  honorable  means 
to  insure  their  election,  if  they  agree  to  the  first  resolve. 

3d.  That  the  G.  M.  appoint  a  committee  of  five  whose  duty 
it  shall  be  to  wait  on  the  above  named  gentlemen,  and  after 
putting  the  question  to  them,  "Will  you  support  or  not?"  the 
committee  shall  report  their  reply  to  the  G.  M.  or  his  Deputy. 

4th.  That  the  committee  of  five  shall  have  full  power  to  co- 
operate with  other  committees  that  are  or  may  be  formed  in  the 
city  for  the  purpose  of  supporting  their  favorite  candidate. 

From  these  proceedings  we  may  infer  an  overweening  anxiety 
to  procure  a  legislative  charter,  and  become  a  corporate  body. 
But  whatever  the  motive  for  its  obtention,  the  difficulty  of  pro- 
curing it  was  in  the  ratio  of  the  desire  to  have  it.  The  candi- 
dates for  the  General  Assembly,  at  that  time,  were  men  of  rare 
attainments  and  great  experience,  but  these  qualifications  were 
just  such  as  to  prevent  their  urging  the  matter  in  the  legislature. 
They  could  not  understand  the  objects  of  the  association  beyond 
their  mere  business  significance,  and  felt  keenly  the  ridicule 
attaching  to  action  with  reference  to  a  moral  movement  which 
was  more  than  suspected  of  immorality.  The  very  names  of  the 
proposed  incorporators  alarmed  them,  associated  as  they  were 
with  oyster  cellars  and  drinking  bars;  they  therefore  warily 
avoided  the  matter  or  flatly  refused  to  give  it  their  assistance. 
It  followed  that  every  effort  to  effect  the  purpose  failed,  and  in 
spite  of  the  zeal  of  Wildey,  who  gave  it  his  personal  attention, 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  119 

came  to  nothing.  It  was  nearly  seven  years  after  the  passage  of 
these  resolutions  before  the  charter  was  obtained.  In  the  mean- 
time the  moral  aspect  of  the  question  was  changed :  Ridgely, 
who  was  a  lawyer,  and  George  Keyser,  afterwards  G.  Sire, 
wrho  was  an  architect,  were  selected,  the  former  as  chairman, 
and  the  latter  as  a  member  of  the  committee  to  draft  and 
procure  the  passage  of  the  instrument.  It  wras  prepared 
and  passed,  and  bears  date  the  9th  day  of  February,  1833. 
To  effect  the  result,  such  phrases  and  general  terms  were 
used  as  enabled  the  legislature  to  pass  upon  it  without 
going  into  those  questions  which,  even  at  this  day,  puzzle  so 
many  of  the  uninitiated.  The  names  of  the  corporators  were 
a  guaranty  of  the  fitness  of  the  act:  not  to  particularize  James 
L.  Ridgely  and  George  W.  Williamson,  there  were  Augustus 
Mathiot,  Elijah  Stansbury  (afterwards  Mayor  of  the  city), 
John  A.  Kennedy,  Andrew  E.  Warner,  and  many  others, 
whose  names  would  have  given  assurance  of  the  respectability 
of  any  association. 

But  to  return  to  the  political  action  of  the  special  session  of 
1826.  It  is  noticeable  that  neither  Welch  nor  Wildey  attended 
this  meeting,  but  seemed  to  be  standing  back  and  refusing  their 
aid,  though  we  have  no  notice  of  any  protest  against  the  resolu- 
tions. The  presumption  is  that  the  whole  scheme  was  an  empty 
threat,  of  no  significance,  excepting  as  venting  the  spleen  of  the 
disappointed  actors,  and  as  it  produced  no  effect,  was  allowed  to 
sleep  in  peace.  But  the  accessions  of  the  next  few  years  included 
men  of  a  different  character,  who  were  differently  affected  by  it. 
They  saw  the  record  and  condemned  it,  and  on  December  29th, 
1831,  more  than  three  years  afterwards,  we  find  the  following: 

"  P.  G.  Young  moved  to  expunge  from  the  record  the  pro- 
ceedings of  the  Grand  Lodge  on  the  5th  September,  in  the  year 
1826,  which  was  unanimously  determined  in  the  affirmative." 

Accordingly,  the  Grand  Secretary  proceeded  to  expunge  the 
offensive  record.  He  carefully  went  over  each  word  with  his 
pen,  joining,  altering,  and  in  fact  so  defacing  the  whole  as 
practically  to  destroy  it.  Above,  on  a  narrow  space,  he  inserted, 
"  Expunged  from  the  record,  by  resolution  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
Dec.  29^,  1831.  JAS.  L.  RIDGELY,  G.  SeJy." 

In  the  light  of  our  principles,  this  solemn  act  of  suppression 
speaks  volumes  for  the  Order.  We  have  always  claimed  not  to 


120  AMEEICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

interfere  with  the  religion  or  politics  of  our  members,  be  they 
what  they  may.  But  professions  are  one  thing  and  practice  another. 
The  State  affects  to  disregard  the  religious  tenets  of  the  citizen, 
yet  often  admits  sectarian  bigotry  to  the  legislative  hall.  The 
churches  teach  in  the  words  of  the  Master,  "  My  kingdom  is  not 
of  this  world  ";  yet,  sometimes  they  have  openly  avow^ed  politi- 
cal creeds,  and  winked  at  the  marshalling  of  sects  in  the  arena  of 
parties.  Odd  Fellowship  is  younger  than  the  parties  and 
creeds  of  the  country,  and  may  yet  live  to  betray  the  prin- 
ciples of  toleration;  but  so  far  it  has  been  faithful  to  its 
mission,  and  with  inflexible  resolution  has  abstained  from  inter- 
ference with  either  religion  or  politics.  That  such  may  continue 
to  be  its  action,  all  good  men  will  devoutly  pray.  In  view  of 
these  reflections,  the  example  of  the  Odd  Fellows  if  Maryland 
should  be  hung  on  the  walls  of  every  lodge-room,  and  recited 
with  joy  in  every  jurisdiction.  It  was  a  bold  and  striking  avowal, 
made  in  all  frankness,  that  they  had  been  false  to  principle ;  and 
the  mutilated  record  is  to-day  a  silent  witness  of  their  repentance, 
a  beacon  to  guide  their  descendants.  Honor  and  praise  to  the 
manhood  that  could  assert  itself  against  such  an  error,  to  vindi- 
cate the  noble  principles  against  which  the  Order  had  offended! 
The  third  quarterly  session  of  the  second  year  convened  Octo- 
ber 17th,  1826,  when  the  Grand  Officers  and  thirteen  P.  G.  Offi- 
cers and  P.  G.'s  were  present.  G.  W.  Marley,  chairman  of  a 
committee,  submitted  rules  of  order,  which  were  adopted.  Be- 
fore this  time,  ancient  usage  and  the  dictum  of  the  chair  regulated 
the  proceedings.  A  committee  was  appointed  to  prepare  an 
exhibit  of  the  receipts  and  expenditures  of  the  Order  from  its 
beginning,  and  to  have  it  printed,  together  with  such  of  the  general 
and  benefit  laws  as  they  might  select,  to  lay  before  the  General 
Assembly  of  Maryland.  This  was  a  continuation  of  the  effort 
to  secure  a  charter,  which  failed.  At  the  suggestion  of  Washing- 
ton Lodge,  a  resolution  was  adopted  to  procure  "  a  banner  for  the 
Grand  Lodge,"  to  be  used  in  public  processions.  The  matter  was 
placed  in  the  hands  of  a  committee,  G.  Sire  Wildey  being  the 
chairman.  The  flag  was  procured.  Its  design  was  a  white  silk 
field  embellished  with  all  the  emblems  of  the  Order  then  in  use. 
This  was  the  first  standard  raised  by  Odd  Fellows  in  the  United 
States.  It  has  many  times  floated  over  vast  processions,  and  is 
carefully  preserved  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland.  P.  G. 


THE  GKAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  121 

Charles  F.  Exe,  of  No.  1,  was  elected  and  admitted  to  membership. 
P.  G.  Gill,  of  No.  2,  sent  in  a  letter  containing  charges  against  P. 
G.  Weaver  >  of  No.  2 ;  when,  on  motion,  it  was  "  Resolved,  that 
P.  G.  Gill,  as  a  suspended  member,  is  entitled  to  no  privilege  in 
this  lodge  or  any  other  of  the  Independent  Order."  He  had 
been  suspended  for  the  non-payment  of  dues.  P.  G.  Weaver  be- 
haved so  badly  on  the  occasion  that  he  was  fined  for  contempt 
shown  to  the  chair.  This  closed  the  session. 

An  adjourned  meeting  was  held  November  7th,  1826,  when 
the  G.  Officers  and  one  P.  G.  Officer  and  nine  P.  G.'s  were  pre- 
sent. G.  Sire  Wildey  and  G.  Sec'y  Williams,  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  the  United  States,  were  also  present.  G.  Sec'y  Williams  read 
the  proceedings  of  the  special  G.  Committee  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  the  LTnited  States,  held  October  3, 1826.  It  was  a  statement  of 
the  facts  connected  with  the  G.  Sire's  visit  to  England — the  honors 
paid  to  him,  and  the  new  charter  from  the  Manchester  Unity, 
which  gave  us  independence.  It  also  appeared  that  the  Grand 
Charter  had  been  formally  accepted  by  the  Grand  Committee. 
The  election  for  G.  Officers  for  1827  resulted  in  the  choice  of  P. 
D.  G.  M.  Scotchburn  as  G.  Master,  D.  G.  M.  Brice  as 
D.  G.  M.,  G.  W.  Marley  as  G.  Warden,  and  G.  Sec'y  Wilson  as 
G.  Secretary.  It  was  resolved  that  a  G.  Marshal  should  be  annu- 
ally appointed,  and  that  the  G.  Master  should  be  ex-officio  G.  Rep. 
in  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  The  adjournment  was  to 
Tuesday,  the  14th  of  November,  1826,  when,  fourteen  in  all  be- 
ing present,  G.  Sire  Wildey  was  very  active,  and  had  the  follow- 
ing adopted : 

"  Resolved,  That  the  G.  Secretary  be  compensated  for 
writing  the  by-laws  in  a  book,  and  that  when  done  it  be 
laid  before  the  presiding  officer  in  open  lodge."  "  Resolved, 
That  brothers  having  received  either  of  the  degrees  shall 
vote  in  any  lodge  upon  application  for  such  degree."  "  Re- 
solved, That  the  Patriarchal  degree  be  printed."  "  Resolved, 
That  a  crozier  be  procured  for  this  degree,  and  that  the  Grand 
Lodge  pay  for  and  retain  it  as  its  property."  And  also,  "  That 
all  P.  G.'s  appointed  on  committees  and  accepting  the  appoint- 
ment, shall  not  vacate  the  office ,  and  all  members  of  committees 
neglecting  the  duties  assigned  them,  shall  be  fined  not  less  than 
fifty  cents  nor  more  than  five  dollars." 


122  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  G.  Sire's  example  was  contagions,  and  it  was  determined,  on 
motion  of  P.  G.  Bickley,  "  to  impose  a  fine  of  fifty  cents  on  all  P. 
G.'s  who  do  not  attend  the  adjourned  meetings  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  or  send  a  reasonable  apology."  And  on  motion  of  G.  W. 
Marley,  "  That  all  P.  G.'s  retiring  without  leave  from  the  chair, 
should  pay  a  fine  of  twenty-five  cents."  G.  Sire  Wildey  also  pro- 
cured the  adoption  of  the  following :  "  Eesolved,  That  the  price 
of  the  several  degrees  be  advanced  after  twelve  months  from  this 
date."  "  Eesolved,  That  the  subordinate  lodges  shall  report  all 
P.  G.'s  suspended  for  arrearages,  every  quarter."  "Resolved, 
That  the  new  signs  and  passwords  be  put  in  operation  in  the 
State  of  Maryland."  "  Resolved,  That  the  Grand  Lodge  purchase 
a  copperplate  for  travelling  certificates,  and  that  there  be  an  altera- 
tion in  the  manner  of  conferring  degrees."  To  perfect  the  cer- 
tificates, it  was,  on  motion  of  P.  G.  Weaver,  "  Resolved,  That  sub- 
ordinate lodges  be  requested  to  provide  themselves  with  ribbon, 
sealing  wrax  and  a  seal  to  stamp  travelling  certificates."  To  con- 
clude the  business,  G.  W.  Marley  offered  the  following,  which 
was  adopted :  "  Resolved,  That  the  emblem  of  the  corner-stone 
and  angles  be  purchased  by  the  Grand  Lodge,"  and  then  finally 
it  was  "  Resolved,  That  the  members  of  the  third  degree  be,  and 
they  are  hereby  invited  to  attend  the  yearly  meeting  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Maryland." 

An  analysis  of  the  work  of  this  session  will  exhibit  the  con- 
structive force  of  Wildey.  It  is  full  of  his  energy,  and  indicates 
clearly  the  best  and  the  worst  points  in  his  character.  When 
Marley  was  asked  by  P.  G.  Sire  Kennedy  what  was  meant  by 
the  resolution  allowing  a  brother  to  vote  in  any  lodge  upon 
applications  for  degrees,  he  was  answered  "  that  voting  a  degree 
was  not  a  lodge  question,  but  a  family  question,  and  that  every 
member  of  the  degree  had  the  right  to  a  voice  on  the  question  of 
admitting  a  new  member."  This  was  certainly  an  equitable 
viewr,  but  one  of  no  practical  value.  The  fines  to  be  imposed  for 
non-attention  to  duty,  indicated  an  inflexible  determination  that 
every  obligation  should  be  discharged.  The  smallness  of  the 
body  made  it  necessary  to  enforce  the  obligations  of  every  member. 
But  after  this  attempt  he  carves  out  work  of  an  important  nature. 
1st.  That  the  price  of  the  degrees  should  be  increased.  Before 
this  session,  the  conditions  imposed  for  conferring  the  subordinate 
degrees  were  various.  In  some  cases  they  were  gratis  or  lion- 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  123 

orary,  in  others  depending  011  duration  of  membership  or  upon 
the  passing  of  certain  offices.  The  money  price  was  nearly 
nominal.  Upon  these  terms  they  were  but  little  sought  for  by 
the  membership.  The  G.  Sire  was  untiring  in  his  efforts  to 
induce  the  brethren  to  take  them,  but  with  very  little  success. 
This  failure  was  imputed  to  the  ease  and  cheapness  with  which 
they  could  be  had.  The  remedy  lay  in  the  increase  of  their 
value,  and  making  their  attainment  more  difficult.  The  pro- 
vision for  seals  "to  stamp  travelling  certificates,"  was  another 
step  in  the  right  direction,  giving  dignity  and  authenticity  to 
those  valuable  documents.  Until  that  time  there  were  no  such 
means  devised  for  the  verification  of  certificates. 

The  new  signs  to  be  put  in  operation  were  those  received 
February  22,  1824,  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  the  U.  S.,  and 
were  at  that  time  repudiated  until  "  further  information  "  should 
be  obtained.  The  G.  Sire  during  his  recent  visit  to  Manchester, 
was  convinced  of  the  necessity  of  the  change.  He  therefore  urged 
their  adoption  without  waiting  for  the  action  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
United  States  on  the  subject.  He  also  had  a  resolution  adopted 
to  effect  a  change  in  the  manner  in  which  candidates  for  degrees 
should  be  introduced  into  the  lodge-room.  The  G.  Lodge  of  the 
United  States  at  its  subsequent  session  adopted  a  similar 
resolution. 

•  "  The  emblem  of  the  corner-stone  and  angles  "  was  purchased 
as  proposed,  and  was  for  a  long  time  an  object  of  curiosity.  Of 
what  it  was  emblematic  no  one  has  been  able  to  discover,  cer- 
tainly of  nothing  in  the  Order.  It  was  a  day  of  wonders,  and 
the  G.  Sire  in  his  report  to  the  special  committee  of  the  G. 
Lodge  of  the  United  States,  made  October  3,  1826,  refers  to  it  as 
"  the  foundation-stone  laid  by  our  forefather  Adam."  If  such 
was  the  fact,  it  was  not  apparent  without  an  appeal  to  the 
wildest  fancy.  In  form  it  was  a  mechanical  combination  of  the 
crank,  pulley  and  windlass,  supported  by  a  three-pole  derrick 
used  for  raising  heavy  bodies.  It  was  a  small  model,  mostly  of 
brass,  with  a  stone  cube  swinging  to  the  pulley,  and  was  a  pretty 
piece  of  mechanism.  But  cui  lono  f 

Washington  Lodge  gave  notice  of  the  expulsion  of  P.  G. 
David  Ramsey,  its  permanent  Secretary,  which  action  was  on 
motion  approved.  G.  Sire  Wildey  then  addressed  the  G.  Lodge 
on  the  subject  of  the  improvement  of  the  lodges  in  the  know- 


124  .         AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

ledge  of  the  laws  of  the  Order,  and  the  proper  method  of  con- 
ducting lodge  business.  His  remedy  wTas  that  the  Past  Officers 
should  take  the  chairs  and  educate  the  members  by  instruction 
and  example.  To  that  end  he  announced  himself  a  candidate 
for  N".  G.  in  Washington  Lodge,  and  urged  the  P.  G.'s  of  Col- 
umbia and  Franklin  Lodges  to  make  the  same  oifer.  This  inter- 
esting session  closed  with  the  usual  invitation  to  the  Scarlet  Degree 
members  to  attend  the  yearly  meeting  to  wdtness  the  installation 
of  the  Grand  Officers. 

The  third  annual  session  convened  January  16,  1827.  P.  G. 
J.  F.  Craig,  of  No.  1,  was  admitted  to  membership,  making  in  all 
18  members  present.  The  committee  to  whom  had  been  referred 
the  admission  of  honorary  members,  submitted  a  report,  the  con- 
sideration of  which  was  postponed.  The  honorary  membership 
here  suggested  was  adopted  February  20,  1827.  It  was  a  sort  of 
roving  commission  to  a  brother  who  did  not  wish  to  continue  an 
active  member.  The  regulations  were  as  follows : 

1st.  Brothers  who  shall  have  obtained  the  above  certificate, 
may  visit  any  lodge  in  the  State  of  Maryland,  but  shall  have  no 
claim  whatever  on  the  benefit  fund,  and  must  conform  and  be 
subject  to  all  the  lawrs  and  ceremonies  of  the  Order  while  in  any 
lodge. 

2d.  It  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  Secretary  to  keep  a  list  of  all 
brothers  wrho  may  draw7  such  certificate,  and  should  such  accept 
of  an  elective  office  in  the  lodge,  they  shall  be  charged  with  the 
same  dues  and  fines  as  if  they  wrere  benefit  members  while  in 
office. 

3d.  Brothers  wishing  to  deposit  their  certificates  and  become 
benefit  members,  must  do  the  same  in  open  lodge,  and  six  months 
thereafter  they  shall  be  entitled  to  all  the  rights  of  benefit 
members,  provided  they  wrere  free  from  all  known  diseases  at  the 
time  of  depositing  the  same. 

4.  Nothing  in  the  foregoing  regulations  shall  preclude  a 
deceased  brother  from  burial  with  the  honors  of  the  Order. 

Thus  the  members  were  divided  into  two  classes — beneficial 
and  honorary.  Honorary  membership  wTas  at  the  election  of  the 
member  if  he  was  in  good  standing.  On  the  16th  of  April, 
1829,  the  following  was  adopted :  "  Resolved,  that  an  engraved 
copperplate  be  procured  of  the  certificate  of  honorary  member- 
ship, and  that  a  committee  of  five  be  appointed  to  take  into  con- 
sideration the  propriety  of  admitting  gentlemen  over  forty-five 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  125 

years  of  age."  At  the  next  meeting  held  on  July  15,  1829,  it 
was  unanimously  "  Resolved,  that  the  subordinate  lodges  be  per- 
mitted to  initiate  gentlemen  over  forty-five  years  of  age,  but  they 
shall  not  be  entitled  to  the  benefits  of  the  lodge."  "  Resolved, 
that  three  Past  Grands  be  appointed  to  investigate  the  character 
of  all  persons  proposed  for  honorary  membership."  The  latter 
provision  was  repealed  on  the  loth  of  October,  1829,  and  the 
following  substituted :  "  Resolved  by  the  R.  W.  Grand  Lodge, 
that  the  subordinate  lodges  may  initiate  candidates  at  forty-five 
years  of  age  and  upwards,  but  not  exceeding  fifty  years.  For 
every  such  candidate,  previous  to  being  initiated,  a  dispensation 
must  be  obtained  from  the  Grand  Lodge,  which  shall  be  read  to 
him  at  the  time  of  initiation,  and  he  shall  be  entitled  to  all  the 
privileges  of  the  Order,  the  same  as  honorary  members." 

This  class  of  members  was  restricted  by  action  had  August 
9,  1830,  as  follows :  "  Resolved,  that  Past  Grands  who  are 
honorary  members  will  not  be  allowed  to  hold  any  office  in  the 
Grand  Lodge."  Applicants  over  forty-five  years  of  age  were 
afterwards  allowed  to  be  initiated  by  a  dispensation  obtained 
from  the  Grand  Master  in  the  recess,  or  in  case  of  his  sickness 
or  absence  from  the  city,  by  his  deputy. 

But  to  return  to  the  session  of  January  16th,  1827.  The  com- 
mittee on  the  subject  of  suspension  for  the  non-payment  of 
dues,  reported  in  favor  of  the  lodge's  being  authorized  to  restore 
a  member  on  the  payment  of  five  dollars  when  his  indebtedness 
exceeded  that  amount,  provided  his  character  was  fair  at  the 
time.  This  law  was  to  continue  in  force  for  but  six  months, 
but  was  kept  alive  until  February  13th,  1828,  when  it  was 
amended  and  framed  into  a  permanent  regulation,  to  wit : 
"  When  a  brother  applies  for  re-admission,  it  shall  be  the  duty 
of  the  N.  G.  to  appoint  a  committee  of  three  to  investigate  his 
character,  and  if  the  report  be  favorable,  the  candidate  shall  be 
ballotted  for,  and  if  duiy  elected,  shall  be  initiated  over  again, 
conformably  to  the  general  laws.  But  if  a  brother  making  ap- 
plication be  over  forty-five  years  of  age,  he  can  only  be  admitted 
as  an  honorary  member,  and  shall  be  entitled  to  a  certificate  to 
that  effect,  by  paying  five  dollars  and  complying  with  the  rules 
and  regulations  made  and  provided  for  the  same."  An  applica- 
tion was  made  by  P.  G.  John  F.  Exe  and  others,  of  Washington 
Lodge,  No.  1,  for  a  dispensation  to  open  a  lodge  in  Baltimore, 


126  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP, 

to  be  styled  William  Tell  Lodge,  No.  4,  and  that  it  be  authorized 
to  conduct  its  business  in  the  German  language.  The  petition 
was  granted  and  the  lodge  instituted ;  G.  Sire  Wildey  having 
drawn  his  card  from  Washington  Lodge  to  become  one  of  its- 
charter  members.  It  is  worthy  of  mention  that  the  G.  Sire  wras 
so  well  satisfied  with  his  choice  that  he  remained  a  member  until 
his  death,  in  1861.  The  lodge  then  adjourned  to  meet  on  the  31st 
instant.  This  was  the  first  German  Lodge  instituted  in  the 
United  States,  and  as  such,  heads  the  list  of  that  long  line  of 
lodges  in  which  our  German  brethren  have  done  noble  work  for 
the  Order. 

At  the  next  meeting,  held  the  31st  of  the  same  month,  a  com- 
mittee was  appointed  to  superintend  the  translation  of  the  charges 
and  degrees  into  the  German  language.  This  was  done,  and 
P.  G.  Santmyer,  of  that  nationality,  vouched  for  the  correctness 
of  the  translation.  Bro.  Hanzsche  wras  selected  to  print  them,  and 
to  qualify  him  for  that  duty,  the  degrees  were  allowed  to  be  con- 
ferred upon  him  by  a  special  resolution.  t  As  the  lodge  had  a 
mixed  membership,  permission  was  granted  it,  on  the  15th  of 
January,  1830,  to  work  in  the  English  and  German  languages; 
this  practice  has  been  allowed  down  to  the  present  time,  and  has 
been  shared  by  several  sister  lodges  which  have  been  formed  out 
of  brethren  of  mixed  nationalities.  This  appearance  of  Germans 
in  the  Order  is  noteworthy.  They,  above  all  others,  are  lovers  of 
social  life ;  for  ages  they  have  been  founders  of  associations  for 
social  purposes.  The  convivial  feature  appealed  to  their  whole 
nature,  and  their  thrifty  habits  were  in  full  harmony  with  the 
beneficial  system.  The  German  element,  since  that  time,  has 
grown  to  vast  proportions  ;  in  every  State  and  Territory  it  has 
formed  a  noble  material ;  none  are  truer  to  our  principles,  none 
more  laborious  or  successful  in  the  work.  They  have  a  proud 
record.  Not  only  have  they  aided  in  our  greatness  at  home,  but 
they  have  awakened  the  masses  of  the  Fatherland  to  the  merits 
of  Odd  Fellowship.  When  the  beloved  Morse,  that  noble  ambas- 
sador, offered  the  Order  to  Germany,  he  found  the  soil  ready  for 
the  sower.  Willing  hands  and  noble  hearts  were  awraiting  him, 
and  opened  up  his  way  to  give  an  empire  to  our  principles.  Judg- 
ing from  what  we  have  seen  in  this  country,  Germany  mav  yet 
rival,  or  even  surpass,  us  in  the  growth  of  the  Order.  It  is  to  the 
Teuton  a  second  nature,  and  its  Saxon  features  wrill  commend  it 
in  all  the  lands  of  that  mighty  people. 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  127 

On  the  31st  of  January,  1827,  the  G.  Lodge  met;  twenty 
members  were  present.  The  G.  Officers  for  the  ensuing  year 
were  installed :  Thomas  Seotchburn  as  G.  M. ;  Charles  Price 
D.  G.  M. ;  Eichard  Marley  G.  W. ;  Ezekiel  Wilson  G.  Sec. ; 
Wm.  "Williams  G.  C.,  and  Samuel  Bickley  G.  G.  On  proceeding 
to  business,  it  was  agreed  that  the  degrees  should  be  conferred  on 
members  in  the  subordinate  lodges  in  the  following  order :  1st, 
the  first  degree;  2d,  the  Covenant  degree;  3d,  the  second 
degree;  4th,  the  Remembrance  degree;  and  5th,  the  third  or 
Scarlet  degree ;  that  no  member  should  receive  a  degree  until 
he  had  been  a  member  for  one  month,  and  that  there  should  be 
an  interval  of  one  month  between  the  taking  of  each  degree. 
Subsequently,  on  the  13th  of  February,  1828,  the  price  of  degrees 
to  be  charged  in  future  by  subordinate  lodges  was  fixed  as 
follows:  For  the  first  degree,  one  dollar;  the  second  degree, 
two  dollars ;  the  third  degree,  three  dollars ;  the  fourth  degree, 
four  dollars ;  and  for  the  fifth  degree,  five  dollars.  These  rates 
were  found  to  be  so  satisfactory  that  they  remain  as  the  law  on 
that  subject  to  this  day.  The  time  at  which  a  candidate  might 
receive  the  degrees  was,  March  7,1831,  regulated  as  follows: 
All  applications  for  degrees  were  to  be  made  in  open  lodge,  and 
an  applicant,  if  qualified,  should  receive  the  same  at  the  time 
of  his  application. 

At  the  meeting  of  31st  January,  1827,  brothers  wrere  made 
ineligible  for  the  chair  of  N.  G.  before  they  had  received  the 
fifth  degree,  and  for  Y.  G.  unless  they  had  received  the  second 
degree.  G.  Sire  Wildey  offered  the  following :  "  Resolved,  that 
all  questions  in  the  Grand  Lodge  shall  be  determined  by  ballot." 
No  explanation  wras  given,  and  no  good  reason  occurs  to  us  for 
such  an  anomaly.  It  is  recorded  on  the  minutes  as  "deter- 
mined," but  this  was  a  mistake,  as  at  the  next  quarterly  session 
a  similar  motion  to  apply  to  the  admission  of  P.  G.'s  failed  to 
pass.  The  object  might  have  been  to  secure  an  unbiased  vote  by 
screening  the  members  from  censure  by  interested  parties.  Most 
likely  it  was  to  mitigate  the  existing  national  jealousy  of  the 
old  members,  and  chiefly  of  Wildey  himself;  at  all  events  it  was 
calculated  to  serve  no  useful  purpose,  and  would  have  been  a 
fatal  drag  on  the  business  of  the  body.  It  may  be  that  the  offer 
was  intended  to  serve  some  purpose  which  was  accomplished 
without  the  passage  of  the  resolution.  A  standing  committee 


128  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

of  three  was  appointed  to  audit  all  expenses  that  should  be 
necessary  for  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  also,  that  no  money  should 
be  paid  or  expenses  incurred  without  a  report  being  first  made 
by  that  committee  and  sanctioned  by  a  majority  of  the  Grand 
Lodge.  A  special  committee  was  then  appointed  to  examine  the 
accounts  of  members  charged  with  fines.  It  was  ordered  that 
fifty  blank  warrants  for  subordinate  lodges  be  printed,  and  last 
of  all,  a  committee  of  three  was  appointed  to  negotiate  a  loan  of 
one  hundred  dollars  for  the  Grand  Lodge.  At  the  next  meeting 
the  committee  reported  that  G.  S.  Wildey  had  promptly  loaned 
the  money. 

The  lodge  then  adjourned  for  three  weeks,  and  met  again  the 
20th  of  February,  1827,  when,  in  addition  to  the  legislation  with 
reference  to  honorary  membership,  as  before  recited,  another 
question  arose.  It  seems  that  Washington  Lodge  was  not  satis- 
fied with  the  honors  awarded  to  the  Grand  Sire  and  Grand  Mas- 
ter, and  suggested  that  they  be  allowed  the  privilege  of  keeping 
their  seats  when  addressing  the  chair,  but  the  Grand  Lodge  had 
the  good  taste  to  pass  by  the  petition  in  silence.  And  then  the 
last  session  of  the  second  year  closed. 

The  second  quarterly  session  of  the  third  year  was  held  April 
17th,  1827;  seventeen  members  present.  A  communication, 
the  first  of  the  kind  to  this  body,  was  received  from  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  adverse  to  changing  the  signs,  &c.,  when 
an  answer  was  returned,  recommending  the  use  of  the  new  signs. 
Three  months  afterwards,  the  Grand  Lodge  instructed  their  rep- 
resentatives to  petition  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  to 
reconsider  the  resolution  requiring  both  signs  to  be  used,  and  to 
provide  for  the  use  of  the  new  sign  only.  On  the  return  of  the 
G.  Sire  from  England,  he  addressed  letters  to  the  Grand  Lodges, 
advising  concurrence  in  the  changes  made  in  the  work  by  the 
Annual  Movable  Committee  of  1823.  The  G.  Lodge  of  Penn- 
sylvania protested  against  the  change,  on  the  8th  of  January, 
1827 ;  the  vote  standing  4  to  2. 

For  more  than  a  year  all  the  lodges  had  been  meeting  at  the 
corner  of  Gay  and  Front  Streets,  then  called  Bridge  and  Jones 
Streets.  The  Grand  Lodge  now  concluded  to  assume  control  of 
the  premises,  and  a  committee  was  appointed  to  purchase  the  fix-^ 
tures  and  regalia  of  the  subordinate  lodges.  At  the  next  meeting, 
held  15th  May,  1827,  a  report  of  the  purchase  was  made.  Colum- 


THE  GKAND  LODGE  OF  MAKYLAND.  129 

bia  Lodge  had  agreed  to  take  four  hundred  dollars  for  the  fixtures, 
decorations  and  regalia,  and  Washington  and  Franklin  Lodges 
thirty-four  dollars  and  fifty  cents  for  their  regalia  and  property, 
reserving  a  portrait  of  General  Washington  to  Washington 
Lodge,  and  the  Odd  Fellows'  "  Coat  of  Arms  "  to  Franklin  Lodge. 
At  the  latter  meeting  a  lease  of  the  premises  to  the  Grand  Lodge 
was  produced,  and  the  yearly  rent  to  be  charged  to  the  subordi- 
nates was  fixed  at  thirty  dollars,  to  commence  on  that  day. 

It  was  on  this  occasion  that  G.  Sire  Wildey  and  seven  others, 
including  G.  M.  Scotchburn,  proposed  a  novel  and  startling 
feature  which  changed  the  whole  organism  of  the  work.  This  was 
that  a  lodge  should  be  chartered  for  the  sole  purpose  of  confer- 
ring the  P.,  the  G.  R.,  and  the  R.  P.  degrees,  and  that  the  Grand 
Lodge  should  resign  the  right  to  confer  them  into  the  hands  of 
the  members  of  the  proposed  body.  These  degrees  heretofore 
had  been  conferred  only  upon  Past  Grands,  and  that  in  the  body 
of  the  Grand  Lodge  itself.  The  new  lodge  was  to  confer  them 
on  members  of  the  fifth  degree.  Thus  the  "  sublime  degrees,"  as 
they  were  afterwards  designated,  were  made  to  form  the  basis  of 
&  new  but  brilliant  departure.  This  was  the  origin  of  the 
Encampment  branch  of  the  Order.  The  petition  was  read  and 
the  charter  granted  at  the  same  meeting,  and  the  charter  fee 
fixed  at  forty  dollars.  The  history  of  this  movement,  its  origin 
and  success,  and  its  place  in  Odd  Fellowship,  will  be  fully  treated 
of  in  the  chapter  on  "  The  Degrees  and  Encampments."  The 
meeting  closed  with  the  inauguration  of  a  plan  for  the  improve- 
ment of  the  work  in  the  lodges.  A  committee  of  five  P.  G.'s 
was  required  to  examine  every  !N".  G.  elect  before  installation, 
and  if  he  was  found  deficient  in  the  first,  second  and  third 
degrees,  he  should  not  have  the  office  and  the  lodge  must  elect 
another. 

~No  matter  of  moment  occurred  at  the  third  quarterly  session 
held  July  16,  1827.  At  the  special  session  held  August  19, 
1827,  the  committee  to  examine  N.  G.'s  elect  had  their  duties 
modified,  so  that  they  were  now  to  examine  the  candidates  for 
that  office  prior  to  the  election.  P.  G.  Harris  was  elected  G. 
Marshal,  and  candidates  for  the  other  offices  were  duly  nominated. 
On  motion  of  G.  Sire  Wildey,  the  7th  Article  of  the  Constitution, 
which  provided  for  the  reading  of  the  Golden  Rule  degree  every 
quarter  and  fixing  its  price,  was  repealed,  that  degree  having 
9 


130  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

been  parted  with  to  the  Encampment.  The  fourth  quarterly 
meeting  was  assembled  October  16, 1S27,  but  ten  members  being 
present,  including  the  punctual  and  indefatigable  Wildey.  The 
rent  to  be  charged  to  the  Encampment  Lodge  was  fixed  at  twelve 
dollars  per  annum.  It  was  ordered  that  three  copies  of  the 
degree  books  should  be  furnished  to  each  of  the  subordinate 
lodges.  An  election  for  G.  Officers  resulted  as  follows :  Thomas 
Scotchburn,  M.  W.  G.  M. ;  John  F.  Exe,  K.  W.  D.  G.  M. ; 
Thomas  Charters,  E.  W.  G.  Warden ;  Daniel  Weaver,  R.  W.  G. 
Secretary. 

One  may  judge  how  imperfectly  the  record  was  kept,  by  the 
silence  of  the  minutes  of  this  meeting  upon  the  subject  of  the 
expulsion  of  P.  G.  William  Williams,  which  had  recently  occurred. 
The  records  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  of  May  1st, 
1828,  show  the  name  of  Williams  in  the  table  of  "expulsions," 
for  breach  of  trust,  &c.  The  facts  are  detailed  elsewhere.  A 
letter  had  been  written  by  J.  J.  Roach,  as  G.  Sec'y  pro  tern,  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  addressed  to  the  Cor.  Sec'y 
of  the  Manchester  Unity,  with  information  that  Williams  had 
absconded,  after  having  defrauded  G.  Sire  Wildey  and  G.  M, 
Scotchburn  of  a  sum  exceeding  twelve  hundred  dollars.  This- 
was  a  severe  blow  to  the  G.  Sire.  Entwisle  was  his  first  guide 
and  counsellor,  and  his  death  was  a  great  misfortune  to  Wildey. 
Williams  ingratiated  himself  into  his  confidence,  and  he  fondly 
hoped  that  he  had  found  a  substitute  for  that  able  Secretary.  The 
G.  Sire  considered  himself  so  identified  with  the  Order,  that  the 
G.  Sec'y  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  was  expected 
to  serve  as  his  private  secretary.  P.  G.  Fennell,  as  Assistant 
G.  Sec'y,  acted  from  July,  182-1,  to  February,  1825,  but  his  ser- 
vices were  not  satisfactory.  At  the  first  election  of  the  separate 
Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  in  1825,  the  G.  Sire  nomi- 
nated Williams,  who,  of  course,  was  chosen  G.  Secretary.  It  is 
supposed  that  the  nationality  of  the  candidate  caused  the  prefer- 
ence ;  if  so,  it  was  a  costly  prejudice.  The  experiment  was  so 
signal  a  failure,  that  the  lesson  led  him  afterwards  to  be  more  wary 
in  the  choice  of  his  confidants. 

The  fourth  annual  session  of  1828  began  January  16th,  and 
having  adjourned  after  the  business  of  the  day,  met  again  on  the 
13th  of  February.  The  officers  elected  were  duly  installed. 
There  were  but  fifteen  members  present,  including  P.  G.  John 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  131 

Brannan,  of  No.  1,  who  was  admitted  at  the  opening.  The 
Grand  Lodge  had  been  previously  opened  in  the  Scarlet  degree, 
when  brothers  of  that  rank  were  admitted  to  witness  the 
installation  of  the  officers.  P.  G.  John  F.  Exe,  who  had  been 
elected  D.  G.  M.,  being  absent,  an  election  was  held,  at  which 
P.  G.  Warden  Richard  Marley  was  elected  to  fill  the  place,  and 
was  installed  with  the  officers  previously  elected.  The  annual 
rent  of  twelve  dollars,  to  be  charged  to  the  Encampment  Lodge, 
was  reduced  to  eight  dollars.  For  the  first  time  we  find  on  the 
minutes  a  statement  that  reports  had  been  made  to  the  Grand 
Lodge  by  its  subordinates.  Only  the  amount  of  percentage  paid 
is  given.  Washington  Lodge  had  paid  $5,  Franklin  $8.50, 
Columbia  $6.40,  and  William  Tell  $7.00,  making  the  receipts 
for  the  quarter  $26.90.  At  the  adjourned  meeting  eighteen  were 
present,  including  P.  G.'s  Frederick  Jordan  and  John  Sauerhoif, 
who  were  elected  and  admitted.  The  expulsion  of  P.  G.  J.  F. 
Craig,  by  Washington  Lodge,  was  approved.  The  copperplate 
for  printing  certificates  having  been  procured,  their  price  was 
fixed  at  $4  per  hundred  to  G.  Lodges,  and  at  $6  to  the  subordi- 
nates. 

A  change  was  made  in  the  mode  of  introducing  a  brother  into 
the  lodge-room  to  receive  the  degrees,  but  was  not  much  regarded, 
the  lodges  having  a  decided  preference  for  the  former  practice. 
A  certificate  was  presented  to  G.  M.  Scotchburn,  as  representa- 
tive of  Maryland  in  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  This 
was  under  the  resolution  that  the  G.  M.  should  also  be  the  Grand 
Representative,  but  a  brief  experience  was  sufficient  to  convince 
the  body  that  a  brother  might  be  useful  in  the  one  place  but  not 
capable  of  filling  the  other.  The  result  was,  a  return  to  the  orig- 
inal plan  of  an  election,  at  which  the  brother  most  capable  could 
be  selected.  On  the  15th  of  October,  1829,  it  was  determined 
that  the  G.  Master,  in  future,  should  not  be  the  representative  in 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  but  that  any  member  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  should  be  eligible  for  the  office.  The  rights  of 
candidates  in  the  subordinates  were  then  secured  by  allowing  them 
to  be  proposed  at  either  of  the  two  last  meeting  nights  previous  to 
the  election.  It  was  resolved  that  any  brother  who  should  be  in 
arrears  at  the  time  of  his  death  to  the  amount  of  two  dollars  and 
fifty  cents,  should  not  be  buried  with  the  honors  of  the  Order. 
This  provision  has  long  since  ceased  to  be  law.  The  finances 


132  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

received  due  attention,  and  a  notice  was  given  that  a  fiscal  report 
would  be  made  at  the  next  quarterly  session.  Notice  was  also 
received  from  the  G.  Lodge  of  New  York,  that  Strangers'  Refuge 
Lodge,  No.  4,  of  that  State,  had  forfeited  its  charter.  Before  the 
adjournment,  the  plan  of  visitation  to  the  subordinates,  for  the 
months  of  March  and  April,  was  announced. 

It  is  proper  to  state  that  the  officers  of  the  G.  Lodge,  in  the 
recess  of  its  sessions,  were  always  employed  in  giving  their  per- 
sonal attention  to  the  subordinates.  Every  lodge  was  visited  and 
inspected,  and  was  praised  or  blamed  as  its  conduct  merited. 
Especial  attention  was  paid  to  the  manner  in  which  the  WORK 
was  performed,  and  the  Grand  Officers  were  expected  not  only  to 
instruct,  but  to  help  to  do  whatever  wras  necessary.  Turbulent 
and  troublesome  members  were  rebuked,  incompetent  officers 
shamed,  and  the  worthy  and  capable  publicly  complimented. 
Rising  talent  was  marked,  and  zealous  brethren  selected  for  future 
promotion  and  honor.  In  all  this  G.  Sire  Wildey  was  the  mover, 
and  his  activity  kept  the  whole  Order  in  motion. 

The  first  quarterly  session  of  the  fourth  year  met  April  17th, 
1828,  and  after  admitting  P.  G.'s  Philips  and  Seabrooks,  ad- 
journed to  meet  on  the  21st  of  April,  1828.  On  that  day  fifteen 
members  were  present.  It  was  provided  that  a  brother  accepting 
a  place  on  a  committee  should,  for  neglect  of  duty,  be  fined  not 
less  than  fifty  cents  nor  more  than  five  dollars;  that  a  P.  G. 
who  should  leave  the  lodge-room  without  the  permission  of  the 
G.  M.,  should  be  fined  twenty-five  cents.  On  the  subject  of  a 
change  of  membership,  it  was  required  that  a  brother  joining  a 
lodge  by  the  deposit  of  his  certificate,  should  obligate  himself  to 
support  the  lodge  under  its  charter.  Then  followed  a  tabular 
statement  of  the  finances,  by  which  it  appears  that  on  the  15th 
April,  1828,  there  was  a  total  indebtedness,  over  and  above  assets, 
of  $580.63 ;  of  this,  $24.38  was  due  to  Franklin  Lodge,  and 
$556.25  to  G.  Sire  Wildey.  The  initiations  for  the  preceding 
quarter  were  four,  expelled  one,  suspended  for  non-payment  of 
dues  four,  death  one,  rent  collected  from  the  four  lodges  $30, 
percentage  $12.63.  Total  amount  from  subordinates,  $42.63. 

The  second  quarterly  session  of  the  fourth  year  met  16th  July, 
1828.  Eighteen  were  present,  with  P.  G.'s  Robert  Gott,  of  No. 
3,  and  Jacob  Hardtner,  of  No.  4,  who  were  newly  admitted.  The 
proceedings  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  of  May  1st, 


THE  GKAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  133 

1828,  together  with  a  proposed  new  constitution  for  that  body, 
were  received  and  referred  to  a  committee,  of  which  G.  Sire  Wil- 
dey  was  appointed  chairman.  The  next  question  considered  was 
one  of  importance,  and  its  solution  was  the  beginning  of  a  system 
whose  benefits  cannot  easily  be  calculated.  At  that  time  a  bro- 
ther who  wished  to  travel  or  to  retire  from  his  lodge  could  take 
a  "  certificate."  This  act  relieved  him  from  the  payment  of  dues 
and  made  him  an  honorary  member.  If  he  desired,  within  one 
year,  to  resume  his  membership,  he  might  do  so  by  depositing 
his  certificate  and  paying  the  sum  of  twenty-five  cents.  The 
lodge,  on  the  contrary,  had  no  power  to  refuse  to  receive  back  a 
brother  of  whom  it  had  certified  that  he  was  "  worthy,  true  and 
faithful."  He  could  not  visit  a  lodge  out  of  his  own  jurisdiction 
but  by  the  deposit  of  his  certificate,  in  which  event  he  became  an 
honorary  member  of  that  lodge.  This  was  not  only  awkward, 
but  was  destructive  of  the  rights  both  of  the  lodge  and  the  mem- 
bership. It  made  membership  a  transitory  tie,  and  gave  no  secu- 
rity for  permanence  to  the  subordinate  lodges.  By  this  means 
affiliation  was  dependent  upon  the  whims  of  members  or  the  acci- 
dents of  fortune.  It  was  now — 

"Resolved,  That  it  be  recommended  to  the  subordinate  lodges 
to  adopt  a  card  in  lieu  of  the  regular  certificate,  so  as  to  enable 
brothers  going  to  a  neighboring  city  for  a  short  time,  to  visit 
lodges  without  withdrawing  their  membership  from  the  lodge  to 
which  they  are  attached." 

This  is  the  first  legislation  on  the  subject  of  visiting  cards 
which  we  have  discovered.  The  Manchester  Unity  had  adopted 
a  plan  upon  which  the  practice  we  have  detailed  was  founded. 
A  member  could  at  his  option  draw  his  card  and  deposit  it  in 
any  other  lodge  he  might  select.  The  lodge  had  no  choice  but 
to  accept  the  card  and  enroll  him  a  member.  He  was  still  at 
liberty  again  to  take  the  card  he  had  deposited.  When  a  brother 
drew  his  card  for  the  purpose  of  "  going  on  tramp,"  it  was  not 
deposited,  but  simply  shown  to  the  lodges  when  he  had  occasion 
to  solicit  assistance.  "When  assistance  was  rendered,  the  amount 
contributed  was  endorsed  upon  the  card,  which  was  then  returned 
to  the  wayfarer.  But  if  the  brother  acquired  a  residence,  there 
was  a  limit  to  the  card,  beyond  which  it  became  invalid.  Until 
that  time  he  was  a  member  at  large. 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  visiting  card  was  not  a  substitute  for  a  "  certificate,"  which 
still  had  its  place  for  other  purposes.  The  certificate  was  used  to 
sever  connection  with  one  lodge  and  to  enable  the  brother  to  join 
another.  The  new  card  was  to  protect  the  lodge  in  its  member 
and  the  member  in  his  lodge.  Lodges  could  now  allow  members 
to  travel  and  visit  anywhere,  and  continue  over  them  the  aegis  of 
their  protection.  No  distance  could  break  the  bonds  of  their 
union.  On  the  other  hand,  the  member  carried  his  lodge  privi- 
leges wherever  he  went.  True,  he  could  not  interfere  in  the 
business  of  the  lodges  that  he  visited,  but  he  retained  all  the 
material  advantages  which  were  proper  to  be  exercised.  He 
could  meet  his  brethren  in  the  lodge-room,  mingle  in  their  rites, 
claim  their  sympathy  and  assistance,  and  give  them  a  suitable 
return.  Above  all,  he  was  still  a  member  of  that  family  where 
he  first  saw  the  light  of  Odd  Fellowship;  he  could  claim  his 
place,  though  absent,  and  returning,  find  himself  at  home.  But 
little  has  been  added  to  this  first  idea,  which,  somewhat  amplified, 
is  now  a  valuable  feature  of  American  Odd  Fellowship. 

The  Grand  Lodge  next  proceeded  to  nominate  candidates  for 
the  offices.  Before  closing,  a  report  was  made  of  the  finances; 
the  amount  received  from  the  subordinate  lodges  was  nearly 
doubled,  but  there  still  remained  an  indebtedness  of  $565.62. 
This  was  due  to  G.  Sire  Wildey.  The  visiting  card  recommended 
to  the  lodges  was  adopted  by  the  Grand  Lodge.  On  the  16th 
April,  1829,  a  committee  reported  a  form  for  a  visiting  card, 
which  was  adopted,  and  fifty  copies  ordered  to  be  printed  for  each 
lodge. 

The  third  quarterly  session  of  the  fourth  year  was  held 
October  16,  1828.  There  were  eighteen  members  present,  in- 
cluding P.  G.  AUGUSTUS  MATHIOT,  of  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1, 
who  came  in  at  that  session.  Bro.  O.  B.  Tyler  presented  the 
Oirand  Lodge  an  engraved  copy  of  the  Declaration  of  Inde- 
pendence of  the  United  States,  with  facsimile  signatures  of  the 
signers,  which  was  accepted  with  thanks.  The  election  for  officers 
for  1829  resulted  as  follows:  for  G.  M.,  John  Roach,  Sen.;  for 
D.  G.  M.,  P.  G.  Santmyer;  G.  W.,  Thomas  Cafferty ;  G.  Sec., 
John  Sauerhoff.  The  financial  report  of  the  quarter  showed 
that  the  lodges  had  promptly  paid  their  rent  and  dues,  but  there 
was  still  the  sum  of  $551.10  due  to  the  G.  Sire. 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  135 

The  fifth  annual  session  was  held  January  16,  1829 ;  twenty 
members,  with  P.  G.'s  Cotteral  of  No.  2,  and  Steinman  of  No.  4, 
then  admitted,  were  present.  The  constitution  was  amended  so 
that  a  P.  Grand  having  his  certificate,  who  should  have  charges 
preferred  against  him,  would  not  be  received  until  the  matter 
was  settled.  It  was  enacted  that  a  Past  Grand  should  not  dis- 
cuss financial  affairs  in  a  subordinate  lodge  of  which  he  was 
not  a  member.  Past  Grands  Santmyer  and  Sauerhoff  having 
declined  to  serve  as  D.  G.  M.  and  G.  Secretary,  D.  G.  M.  Marley 
and  G.  Sec.  Weaver  were  unanimously  re-elected.  The  following 
were  then  installed :  John  Roach,  G.  M. ;  Richard  Marley,  D. 
G.  M. ;  Thomas  Cafferty,  G.  "W.;  Daniel  Weaver,  G.  Sec.;  and 
the  following  appointed  officers  :  Frederick  Jordan,  G.  Con.,  and 
Thomas  Charters,  G.  G.  A  new  charter  was  granted  to  Encamp- 
ment Lodge,  No.  1,  by  the  style  of  "  The  Encampment  of  Pa- 
triarchs." No  doubt  the  anxiety  to  change  the  name  had  much 
to  do  with  the  change  of  the  charter,  but  the  appellation  was 
yet  indefinite.  It  was  not  until  a  Grand  Encampment  was 
organized  by  the  supreme  authority  that  it  assumed  a  proper 
title.  It  then  received  the  name  of  Jerusalem  Encampment, 
No.  1.  The  substituted  charter  was  merely  an  amendment  of 
the  original  paper,  and  contained  the  same  date  of  issue  and 
names  of  the  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  The  debt  due  was 
still  $517.08.  AVe  have  stated  that  on  15th  May,  1827,  the 
Grand  Lodge  purchased  the  furniture,  fixtures  and  regalia  of 
Columbia  Lodge,  and  became  the  proprietor  of  its  meeting 
room.  G.  Sire  Wildey,  who  was  acting  as  Treasurer,  advanced 
not  only  the  $100  referred  to  in  the  minutes  of  April  17,  1827, 
but  the  $4:00  which  was  afterwards  paid  to  Columbia  Lodge. 
These  items,  with  previous  advances,  made  him  the  creditor  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  for  the  amount  of  $660. 

By  the  statement  now  made,  the  principal  sum  was  reduced 
$113  in  one  year  and  eight  months,  which,  under  the  circum- 
stances, must  be  considered  a  sign  of  prosperity.  It  may  ho 
remarked  that  the  constitution  did  not  provide  for  a  Grand  Trea- 
surer. In  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United- 
States,  John  Boyd  acted  as  treasurer.  At  the  meeting  prelimi- 
nary to  the  organization  he  was  selected  as  G.  Treasurer,  as  well 
as  Grand  Guardian,  but  at  the  organization,  22d  February,  1821, 
he  is  only  mentioned  as  G.  Guardian.  Afterwards  he  is  regis- 


136  AMERICAN   ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

tered  only  as  G.  G.,  until  he  became  proxy  Representative  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  when  he  is  styled  Hep.  Boyd. 
Neither  of  the  constitutions  adopted  by  the  joint  bodies  of  1821 
and  1823,  or  those  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland  of  1824  and  1829, 
had  provisions  for  such  an  officer,  and  none  such  was  installed 
under  any  of  them.  John  Boyd  was  the  first  G.  Treasurer  in- 
stalled in  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland.  This  occurred  January 
loth,  1831,  yet  it  does  not  appear  that  he  was  elected  to  the  office. 
G.  Sire  Wildey,  until  January,  1831,  was  the  fiscal  agent  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland.  The  position  was  certainly  no  sine- 
cure. The  minutes  are  silent  as  to  who  performed  the  duty  of 
cashier. 

The  word  "  Treasurer  "  (not  Grand  Treasurer)  occurs  no  les& 
than  seventeen  times  in  the  minutes  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and 
of  the  U.  S.  from  Febr'y  22d,  1821,  until  Nov.  22d,  1824,  and  but 
once  with  the  addition  of  a  name.  In  that  interval  there  had 
been  four  elections  for  G.  Officers,  whose  names  are  displayed  on 
the  minutes,  yet  there  is  no  mention  of  the  election  of  any  such 
officer.  On  22d  of  May,  1824,  a  paper  appears  in  the  minutes,  in 
the  handwriting  of  Assistant  G.  Sec.  Fennell,  which  certifies  a 
fiscal  statement  as  follows :  "  The  foregoing  accounts  and  pro- 
ceedings of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland  are  all  just  and  correct.'7 
This  is  subscribed  by  Thomas  "Wildey,  G.  M.;  John  Welch,  D. 
G.  M.;  John  P.  Entwisle,  P.  D.  G.  M.;  Thomas  Mitchell,  G.  W.; 
John  Boyd,  G.  G.;  Charles  Common,  G.  Con.;  Maurice  Fennel], 
A.  G.  Sec.  and  five  P.  G's.  A  balance  of  $23.52  is  mentioned, 
but  no  hint  is  given  as  to  the  holder  of  that  sum.  The  exception 
occurs  May  18th,  1823,  with  the  following  entry  :  "  leaving  a  bal- 
ance in  the  Treasurer's  hands  this  day  of  $68.83  ";  under  this  we 
find,  in  the  handwriting  of  the  G.  Sec.,  "  John  Boyd,  Tr."  This 
faint  intimation  is  all  that  we  find  on  the  subject  in  a  record  of 
four  years.  After  the  separation,  the  G.  L.  of  Maryland  changed 
for  the  better ;  at  two  sessions  in  1825,  reference  is  made  to  "  bal- 
ance in  Treasurer  Boyd's  hands,"  and  April  14th,  1826,  the  G. 
Sec.  closes  his  cash  account  thus :  "  To  balance  paid  over  to  G. 
S.  Wildey  $14.50."  From  that  time  G.  S.  Wildey  acted  as  banker 
for  the  body,  as  he  was  continually  in  advance.  When  he  was 
paid  in  full  for  his  advances,  P.  G.  John  Boyd  was  installed  as 
Treasurer.  The  financial  statement  closed  the  annual  session. 


THE  GKAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  137 

A  special  session  met  February  17,  1829.  P.  G.  Samuel 
Lucas,  of  No.  1,  was  admitted,  making  seventeen  members  in 
attendance.  The  meeting  was  called  to  defeat  an  act  of  incor- 
poration from  the  State  Legislature.  G.  Sire  Wildey,  in  the 
recess,  had  so  pushed  the  measure  as  to  induce  a  city  member  to 
offer  the  bill.  The  bill  was  offered,  but  with  a  title  which  was 
not  satisfactory.  Fearful  that  it  might  pass  in  the  objectionable 
shape,  the  G.  Sire  hastened  to  defeat  it.  It  was  entitled,  "An, 
Act  to  Incorporate  the  Mutual  Relief  Society  of  Odd  Fellows." 
This  title  had  been  inserted  without  the  knowledge  of  the  G. 
Sire,  who  was  quite  indignant.  It  was  unanimously  agreed  that 
no  charter  would  be  accepted  unless  it  was  designated  by  the 
proper  title,  "An  Act  to  Incorporate  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Mary- 
land of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows"  A  committee 
was  appointed  to  have  a  proper  act  passed,  but  it  came  to 
nothing.  At  length,  on  the  27th  of  October,  1832,  a  final  com- 
mittee \vas  appointed,  consisting  of  P.  Grands  George  Keyser, 
McClintock  Young,  James  L.  Ridgely,  Thomas  Wildey  and 
Robert  Neilson.  The  committee  took  the  matter  in  hand,  and 
succeeded  in  procuring  this  long  wished  for  act  of  legislation. 

Thus  the  agitation  for  a  charter,  begun  on  September  5, 
1826,  had  a  successful  result,  which  was  entirely  owing  to  the 
men  who  had  entered  after  that  date.  The  gratitude  of  the 
Order  was  boundless.  P.  G.  John  A.  Kennedy,  afterwards  G. 
Sire,  submitted  the  following,  which  was  adopted : 

"  Resolved  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  that  Bros.  George 
Keyser  and  James  L.  Ridgely,  for  their  arduous,  devoted  and 
successful  exertions  in  obtaining  for  this  Grand  Lodge  an  act  of 
incorporation,  are  entitled  to  the  lasting  gratitude  of  every 
brother. 

"  Resolved,  that  a  committee  of  three  be  appointed,  with  power 
to  prepare  and  present  to  Bros.  George  Keyser  and  James  L. 
Ridgely,  on  behalf  of  this  lodge,  a  suitable  token,  in  testimony 
of  the  grateful  sentiments  entertained  by  this  lodge  to  those 
brethren,  for  their  valuable  services."  P.  G.'s  Kennedy,  Blair 
and  Jackson  were  appointed  the  committee,  which  reported  as 
follows : 

"  Resolved,  that  the  sum  of  $80  be  and  the  same  is  hereby 
appropriated  to  carry  into  effect  the  resolution  of  the  15th  of 
February,  1833,  to  be  expended  under  the  direction  of  the  com- 


138  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

inittee  in  procuring  suitable  pieces  of  plate,  to  be  presented  to 
Eros.  Keyser  and  Ridgely,  as  stated  in  said  resolution."  The 
yeas  and  nays  being  called,  the  resolution  passed  by  a  very  large 
majority.  On  November  1,  1833,  the  presentation  was  made  in 
open  Grand  Lodge  to  each  of  these  brethren,  of  a  beautiful  silver 
cup,  which,  says  the  journal,  "  was  accompanied  by  an  able  and 
•eloquent  address." 

The  first  quarterly  session  of  the  fifth  year  met  April  16, 1829, 
with  the  usual  attendance  ;  P.  G.'s  Wilcox,  of  'No.  3,  and  Knob- 
lock,  of  No.  4,  were  admitted.  The  committee  to  revise  the  de- 
grees reported  a  modification,  which  was  agreed  to:  the  change 
consisted  merely  in  the  erasure  of  superfluous  expressions.  A 
resolution  was  adopted  instructing  the  Grand  Rep.  to  vote  for 
Thomas  Wildey  for  the  office  of  G.  Sire  for  the  next  term  of  four 
years.  The  lodge  then  closed  after  the  usual  financial  report. 
This  meeting  preceded  the  tenth  anniversary  of  the  Order  but 
three  days,  and  was  the  end  of  the  first  decade,  but  the  subject 
would  be  unfinished  should  the  narrative  close  before  the  termi- 
nation of  the  current  year.  We  shall,  therefore,  complete  the 
annals  for  the  year.  In  conclusion  the  whole  narrative  will  be 
summed  up  in  the  grand  event  of  that  period,  the  building  of  a 
hall  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland.  The  second  quarterly 
meeting  of  the  fifth  year  was  held  15th  July,  1829  ;  present  but 
14  members.  Nominations  for  Grand  Officers  were  made,  when, 
as  the  minutes  say,  "  the  evening  being  very  warm,  and  but  few 
members  present,  on  motion  the  lodge  was  duly  closed." 

The  third  quarterly  session  of  the  fifth  year  was  held  October 
15th,  1829.  P.  G.'s  Charles  Wilkins,  of  No.  3,  and  Nicholas 
Prangen,  of  No.  4,  were  admitted  to  membership.  A  full  lodge 
of  twenty  members  were  present.  It  seems  that  unworthy 
candidates,  when  rejected  in  one  lodge,  were  sometimes  proposed 
again,  until  some  lodge,  ignorant  of  their  antecedents,  received 
them.  The  remedy  was  adopted  as  follows  :  "  Resolved,  that  no 
subordinate  lodge  shall  initiate  any  candidate  who  has  been 
rejected,  within  six  weeks  after  his  rejection  ;  and  the  secretary 
of  every  lodge  in  which  a  rejection  shall  take  place,  shall  imme- 
diately inform  the  Grand  Secretary  and  all  subordinate  lodges 
thereof."  This  excellent  rule,  with  an  unimportant  amendment,  is 
still  the  law,  and  fully  serves  the  purpose  for  which  it  was 
intended.  The  election  of  Grand  Officers  resulted  in  the  selec- 


THE  GBAKD  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  139 

tion  of  Ezekiel  Wilson,  G.  M. ;  liichard  Marley,  (for  the  third 
time),  D.  G.  M. ;  Thomas  Cafferty,  G.  W.  ;  and  Daniel  Weaver, 
G.  Sec'y,  who  were  installed  into  office  at  the  annual  session  of 
15th  January,  1830.  The  accounts  still  showed  a  balance  of 
$565.83  in  favor  of  G.  Sire  Wildey. 

Past  Grand  Samuel  Lucas,  of  No.  1,  who  had  been  a  member 
of  the  body  for  about  eight  months,  boldly  proposed  the  removal 
of  what  was  considered  a  corner-stone  of  the  Order.  Long  before 
the  Grand  Lodges  existed,  a  practice  prevailed  which  dated  back 
to  the  earliest  meetings  of  Odd  Fellows,  and  was  intended  to  ex- 
press approbation  of  certain  measures  or  sentiments,  or  as  a  token 
of  admiration  of  particular  persons.  The  practice  was  known  as 
"  Giving  the  Honors,"  and  was  performed  by  a  boisterous  clap- 
ping of  the  hands.  In  early  days  "  the  proposition  for  harmony" 
was  a  regular  order  of  business  ;  under  that  order  it  was  custom- 
ary "  to  give  the  honors  "  when  a  song  was  well  sung,  a  recita- 
tion well  rendered,  or  when  receiving  agreeable  information,  or 
on  the  visit  of  a  distinguished  brother.  When  Grand  Officers 
began  to  exist,  the  entrance  and  departure  of  these  dignitaries 
were  often  the  occasion  of  very  noisy  demonstrations.  Brother 
Lucas  proposed  to  dispense  with  these  attentions,  and  that 
honor  be  accorded  them  in  a  different  manner ;  that  on  their 
entrance  the  whole  lodge,  except  the  N.  G.,  should  rise  and  salute 
them  with  the  countersign,  at  the  time  they  were  saluting  the 
chair.  It  was  laid  over  for  several  sessions,  but  at  length,  on  the 
20th  October,  1830,  this  ancient  landmark  was  removed  by  a 
solemn  resolution  of  disapproval. 

It  is  impossible  to  state  the  exact  condition  of  the  Order  in 
Maryland  at  this  time.  The  report  made  to  the  G.  S.  of  the  U. 
S.,  to  May,  1820,  omits  to  state  the  number  of  members.  The 
next  report  was  made  to  September,  1830,  being  ten  months  and 
a  half  later  than  this  session.  In  the  interval  of  sixteen  months 
a  revolution  had  occurred ;  the  membership  had  grown  from  372 
to  709,  by  initiations,  which  numbered  337 ;  the  5th  lodge  had 
been  chartered  ;  the  Encampment  contained  20  members ;  there 
had  been  but  one  suspension  and  two  expulsion?,  and  the  revenue 
was  $2-127.  "When  the  causes  for  this  prosperity  are  shown,  we 
must  conclude  that  in  September,  1829,  there  were  not  more  than 
400  contributing  members,  and  the  revenue  did  not  exceed 
$1200.  The  lodges  were  four,  besides  that  curious  lodge  which 


14:0  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

was  called  the  Encampment.  The  undertaking  which  resulted 
in  this  increase  was  set  on  foot  at  the  next  meeting,  it  being  the 
15th  January,  1830,  and  the  sixth  annual  session;  it  was  then — 

"  Resolved  unanimously,  that  the  propriety  of  procuring  a 
suitable  lot  of  ground,  in  some  central  part  of  the  city,  be  recom- 
mended to  the  subordinate  lodges,  to  build  an  Odd  Fellows'  hall ; 
the  building  to  cost  $3000,  to  be  divided  into  300  shares,  at  $10 
per  share,  payable  by  instalments  of  one  dollar  per  month." 

This  was  followed  by  the  grant  of  a  charter  to  another  lodge, 
March  22d,  1830 :  Gratitude  Lodge,  No.  5,  so  called  as  a  com- 
pliment to  G.  Sire  Wildey,  was  organized  by  J.  T.  Woodward, 
William  Edgar,  James  Cox,  James  Deveroux,  Absalom  Han- 
cock, James  H.  Warfield,  J.  B.  Bosley,  J.  S.  Merriken,  Wil- 
liam A.  SchaefFer,  Jonathan  Jackson,  John  Easter  and  Augus- 
tus Mathiot.  On  Tuesday,  30th  March,  1830,  the  lodge  was 
instituted  and  the  officers  installed.  Contemporaneously  we 
find  the  execution  of  a  perpetual  lease  to  trustees,  of  a  part  of  the 
lot  now  owned  on  Gay  Street,  for  the  use  of  the  Order.  The 
building  of  a  hall  on  this  lot  now  became  the  passion  of  the  mem- 
bers ;  every  meeting  witnessed  some  new  device  to  carry  out  the 
purpose.  But  the  number  interested  was  few ;  there  was  no  capi- 
tal, and  the  progress  was  slow  and  difficult.  It  was  at  this  junc- 
ture, on  the  20th  July,  1830,  that  P.  G.  James  L.  Ridgely 
accepted  a  nomination  and  was  elected  Grand  Secretary. 

This  brother  had  been  initiated  in  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  3, 
on  the  27th  day  of  May,  1829,  and  was  elected  Y.  Grand,  Oct. 
14,  1829,  and  K  Grand  the  17th  February,  1830.  He  entered 
the  Grand  Lodge  at  the  special  session  of  May  27th  or  June 
22d,  1830,  and  his  name  appears  on  the  minutes  as  a  member  on 
July  6,  1830.  The  journal  has  omitted  the  names  of  those 
admitted  at  these  special  meetings.  P.  G.  Eidgely  had  formed 
the  acquaintance  of  P.  G.  Robert  Gott,  who  had  been  admitted 
to  the  Grand  Lodge,  July  16,  1828.  The  statements  of  Gott 
roused  Ridgely's  curiosity,  and  he  was  particularly  struck  with 
the  assumption  of  moral  functions,  and  the  anxiety  of  the  obscure 
society  to  obtain  incorporation.  Under  these  influences,  he 
allowed  P.  G.  Gott  to  propose  and  have  him  elected  in  Columbia 
Lodge.  He  was  in  his  twenty-second  year,  had  been  admitted 
to  the  bar  in  Baltimore  in  June  1828,  and  one  month  later  had 
married.  It  is  but  justice  to  him  to  state  that  he  ranked  well  in 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND. 

a  law  class  whose  members  became  the  great  lawyers  of  Mary- 
land. His  education  had  been  liberal,  but  his  means  were 
limited  to  the  profession  which  he  had  just  entered.  When  he 
became  a  member,  he  met  all  the  chiefs  of  the  enterprise.  His 
knowledge  of  the  city  members  of  the  legislature  drew  attention 
to  him,  as  one  who  might  render  valuable  assistance  in  procuring 
an  act  of  incorporation.  Afterwards  his  advice  was  taken  by 
those  having  the  matter  in  hand.  His  services  in  procuring  the 
Act  have  been  already  recounted.  When  he  entered  the  Grand 
Lodge,  he  found  the  resolution  adopted  which  recommended  the 
building  of  a  hall  by  the  subordinates.  To  this  he  demurred. 
He  saw  that  the  plan  was  bad  and  could  not  succeed,  and  by 
proper  representations  he  caused  its  abandonment.  The  hall 
was  now  to  be  built  by  the  Grand  Lodge  itself,  and  not  by  its 
subordinates.  This  change  of  plan  was  magical  in  its  effects,  as 
will  appear  in  the  sequel. 

At  this  point  Kidgely  fully  identified  himself  with  the  cause, 
and  thereby  fixed  his  earthly  destiny.  He  did  not  dream  that 
Mutual  Relief  would  become  the  object  of  his  life;  that  the 
members  of  those  lodge  families  would  be  his  coadjutors  for  half 
a  century ;  that  for  them  and  their  successors  he  would  forsake 
his  profession  and  the  friends  of  his  youth ;  for  them,  visit 
every  part  of  his  own  country,  and  seek  their  kindred  beyond 
the  stormy  Atlantic.  Still  less  could  he  foresee  the  fame  of  the 
leaders,  or  the  glory  that  would  crown  their  work;  that  this 
FRATERNITY  would  assemble  her  children,  and  sitting  down  beside 
the  two  great  oceans,  embrace  a  continent  in  her  arms.  Nor 
could  he  foretell  this  day,  when,  now  past  three-score  years  and 
ten,  he  is  about  to  close  his  career,  amidst  the  love  and  tenderness 
of  a  nation  of  Odd  Fellows. 

But  to  the  narrative.  The  lot  had  been  obtained,  but  the 
enterprise  stood  still.  Some  very  crude  means  were  devised  to 
obtain  the  money ;  such,  for  instance,  as  a  tax  of  one  dollar  on 
every  initiation.  At  the  meeting  at  which  Eidgely  was  nomi- 
nated for  Grand  Secretary,  a  draft  of  a  certificate  of  stock  was 
proposed,  and  200  copies  ordered  to  be  printed.  A  stock  book 
was  subsequently  obtained  in  which  to  enter  the  certificates 
when  issued.  The  shares,  at  first  to  consist  of  300,  were  in- 
creased to  an  indefinite  number.  A  building  committee  had 
already  been  appointed,  composed  of  G.  Sire  Wildey  and 


14:2  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

P.  G.'s  James  L.  Ridgely,  Augustus  Mathiot,  Jolm  Boyd  and 
Samuel  Lucas.  This  committee,  after  many  ineffectual  efforts, 
were  discouraged,  and  it  became  necessary  to  invoke  new 
measures  to  insure  success.  Once  indeed  the  work  was  stopped, 
and  the  prospect  was  so  gloomy  that  an  opponent  of  the  scheme 
suggested  that  the  unfinished  building  should  be  roofed  over  as  a 
monument  of  the  folly  of  the  enterprise.  But  this  was  but  a 
momentary  check  to  the  parties  interested.  It  was  at  once 
proposed  to  enlarge  the  plan,  and  instead  of  a  cheap  edifice,  to 
construct  a  hall  not  to  cost  less  than  $10,000.  This,  after  some 
murmuring,  was  agreed  to,  and  the  committee  made  bolder 
efforts  to  secure  success.  G.  Secretary  Ridgely,  accompanied  by 
P.  G.  Marley,  undertook  to  canvass  the  membership  in  person, 
and  to  go  through  the  lodges  to  procure  subscriptions.  They 
everywhere  met  with  substantial  marks  of  favor.  Upon  a  closer 
view,  the  individual  members  became  warm  partisans  of  the 
enterprise  ;  money  came  in  freely,  and  the  work  was  rapidly 
carried  on  upon  the  larger  plan,  which  had  been  adopted.  But 
one  more  stoppage  occurred ;  ready  money  was  imperatively  re- 
quired, when  G.  Secretary  Ridgely,  whose  father-in-law  was  a 
director  in  the  Franklin  Bank  of  Baltimore,  had  his  note  dis- 
counted for  §2000,  and  furnished  the  money.  Of  this  note 
Ridgely  was  the  maker,  and  Samuel  Lucas,  then  Grand  Master, 
was  the  endorser;  and  on  its  maturity,  Ridgely  advanced  the 
money,  which  was  afterwards  returned  to  him  by  the  Grand 
Lodge. 

And  thus,  after  many  discouragements,  by  indomitable  per- 
severance, personal  solicitation,  and  the  use  of  private  credit, 
the  first  Odd  Fellows'  Hall  in  America  was  built  for  the  Order 
in  the  City  of  Baltimore. 

One  great  element  of  success  was  found  in  the  enterprise 
itself.  The  project  awakened  attention  to  the  Order,  and  enlisted 
the  interest  of  a  class  of  persons  who  had  hitherto  looked  upon 
it  as  of  but  little  importance.  When  the  fact  was  made  known 
that  the  Hall  would  certainly  be  completed,  and  that  it  would 
be  dedicatee!  on  the  26th  of  April,  1831,  a  rush  was  made  to 
enter  the  lodges,  and  to  share  in  the  glory  of  that  day.  Origin- 
ally the  working  classes  of  the  rougher  grades  constituted 
almost  the  whole  body;  now  the  case  was  different.  Law- 
yers, physicians,  merchants,  skilled  mechanics  and  tradesmen, 


*   •' 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND. 

engineers,  farmers  and  retired  gentlemen,  were  among  the 
applicants  for  membership.  The  lodges  had  increased  to 
seven,  but  such  was  the  pressure  of  work  upon  them,  that  it 
was  impossible  to  perform  it  at  the  stated  meetings.  Accord- 
ingly special  meetings  were  held  for  initiations,  in  the  morning 
and  afternoon  and  at  night.  The  one  room  at  Wildey's  was 
insufficient,  and  other  rooms  were  improvised  for  the  emergency. 
The  dwelling  of  Bro.  Wildey,  at  the  corner  of  Front  and  Gay 
Streets,  was  a  three-story  building  of  brick ;  the  entrance  was 
on  Front  Street,  in  the  rear  of  the  main  building,  by  a  gateway 
in  a  brick  wall,  which  opened  into  the  yard ;  the  lodge-room 
occupied  the  front  of  the  house.  The  dwelling  was  entered 
through  a  narrow  passage,  on  the  right  of  which  was  a  small 
room  used  as  a  dining-room,  being  immediately  over  the  kitchen. 
On  the  second  floor  was  the  lodge-room,  on  the  left  of  the  plat- 
form at  the  landing;  this  was  accessible  by  passing  through  the 
anteroom,  a  small  space  cut  off  from  the  large  room  of  about  ± 
by  16  feet.  The  lodge-room  itself  was  in  size  about  30  by  16 
feet.  This  was  the  only  room  occupied  by  the  Order ;  but  the 
times  were  extraordinary,  and  one  after  another  of  the  rooms  were 
appropriated,  until  the  whole  dwelling  was  sometimes  in  tempo- 
rary use,  to  the  exclusion  of  the  family.  The  new  applicants 
included  many  Masons  (whose  Order  had  never  recognized  Odd 
Fellowship  with  favor),  who  stood  high  in  that  ancient  brother- 
hood, and  who  had  the  best  of  standing  in  the  community. 
Among  these  we  may  name  George  Keyser,  then  Grand  Marshal 
of  the  Masonic  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  afterwards  Grand 
Sire  with  us ;  Joseph  K.  Stapleton ;  Thomas  Phenix,  for  many 
years  Grand  Secretary  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland ;  John 
D.  Miller,  Abraham  G.  Cole,  Francis  Burns  and  John  Coates, 
the  two  last  for  many  years  Grand  Masters  of  the  Masonic 
Order.  Also  Edward  Spedden,  Hugh  Devallin,  David  Martin, 
Samuel  Child,  and  James  M.  Buchanan,  afterwards  United  States 
Minister  to  Denmark,  and  others  of  such  position  as  to  be  recog- 
nized as  first  among  the  citizens  and  business  men  of  Baltimore. 
From  this  statement,  which  falls  below  rather  than  above  the 
mark,  it  may  be  fairly  conceded  that  the  forthcoming  dedication 
was  preceded  by  events  which  foreshadowed,  for  the  12th  anni- 
versary of  the  Order,  the  proudest  day  which  Odd  Fellowship 
had  seen  since  the  hour  of  its  origin,  and  that  the  celebration 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

would    be   one  of  the  most  brilliant   that    the    city  had    ever 
witnessed. 

Difficulty  was  encountered  in  securing  an  auditorium  in 
which  to  have  the  oration,  and  it  was  not  until  the  city  was  can- 
vassed that  a  church  building  was  allowed  to  be  used  for  the  pur- 
pose. The  struggling  Order  had  neglected  no  effort  to  secure  the 
good-will  of  the  ministry  and  the  churches ;  it  recognized  their 
eminence,  and  wooed  them  to  assist  in  its  benefactions.  On  Sep- 
tember 10th,  1830,  the  following  was  adopted:  "  Eesolved,  that 
ministers  of  the  gospel,  under  forty-five  years  of  age,  be  admitted 
into  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  without  paying  the 
initiation  fee."  This  invitation  was  not  accepted ;  and  although 
we  have  since  counted  among  our  best  and  noblest,  the  members 
and  ministers  of  all  divisions  of  the  Protestant  family,  whose  names 
are  forever  registered  in  the  red-letter  calendar  of  our  greatest 
men,  yet  it  is  true  to-day,  as  it  was  then,  that  the  church  and 
its  ministry  are  not  with  us.  The  causes  lie  chiefly  in  the  igno- 
rance that  springs  from  indifference,  or  perhaps,  in  our  tolerance 
of  creeds,  and  our  public  avowal  of  moral  purposes,  which  many, 
without  reflection,  torture  into  an  assumption  of  religious  func- 
tions. In  this  direction  we  take  no  portion  of  the  blame ;  we 
have  never  attempted  to  lay  unsanctified  hands  upon  any  altar 
at  which  Christians  worship;  the  Bible  is  an  indispensable 
part  of  the  property  of  every  lodge-room,  and  thousands  of  the 
best  men  of  all  communions  crowd  our  secret  penetralia ;  are 
lovers  of  our  principles  and  doers  of  our  work.  If  we,  with  those 
who  refuse  co-operation,  are  common  losers  by  this  antagonism, 
our  skirts  are  clear,  for  our  hearts  have  always  been  open  to  such 
a  confederation,  which  would  have  added  to  our  potency,  and 
given  a  new  impetus  to  the  gospel  that  "  goes  about  doing 
good." 

The  committee  on  the  celebration  found  one  generous  man, 
a  minister  of  the  Protestant  Episcopal  Church,  who  took  part  in 
the  ceremonies.  The  record  is  full  of  gratitude  to  this  good 
man;  the  following  was  offered  and  was  unanimously  adopted: 
'  Whereas,  this  Grand  Lodge  entertains  a  lively  sense  of  grati- 
tude towards  the  Eev.  J.  Y.  Eartow,  of  Trinity  Church,  in  this 
city,  for  the  use  of  his  church,  which  was  so  kindly  pr offered  to 
the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  on  the  occasion  of  the 
dedication  of  Odd  Fellows'  Hall,  26th  April,  1831,  and  for  the  aid 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  145 

rendered  by  him  in  the  ceremonies  of  that  day ;  therefore,  Ee- 
solved,  that  it  be  recommended  to  the  brethren  of  the  Order  to 
attend  the  sacred  concert  on  the  22d  of  December  next,  at  seven 
o'clock  P.  M.,  as  a  testimony  of  their  gratitude,  and  that  the 
subordinate  lodges  be  requested  to  close  on  that  evening  for  the 
purpose  of  attending  the  said  concert,  and  that  a  copy  of  these 
resolutions  be  transmitted  to  each  lodge."  Not  satisfied  with 
this,  at  a  subsequent  meeting,  G.  Secretary  Ridgely  submitted  a 
motion  that  the  Grand  Lodge  subscribe  for  twenty-five  tickets  to 
the  concert,  which  was  amended,  by  consent  of  the  mover,  to 
fifty,  and  in  that  shape  passed  unanimously.  So  heedful  were  the 
fathers  of  the  obligations  of  gratitude;  may  not  this  incident,  so 
honorable  to  all  concerned,  answer  the  question  as  to  the  moral 
status  of  our  ancestors,  at  whose  honest  record  no  blush  of  shame 
can  ever  mantle  the  cheek  of  the  most  fastidious  of  their 
posterity. 

But  this  digression,  though  inviting  discussion,  cannot  be  in- 
dulged ;  we  return  to  the  new  hall,  in  which  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
the  United  States  met  for  the  first  time  on  the  5th  day  of  Septem- 
ber, 1831.  It  cost  the  sum  of  $13,267,  a  large  sum  at  that  day. 
The  ground  was  bought  in  fee  for  $1690.42;  the  debt  due  on  its 
completion  was  $3500,  and  upon  a  call  for  new  subscriptions, 
$5050  was  obtained,  out  of  which  excess  the  ground  was  paid  for, 
and  no  further  debt  was  left  to  be  liquidated.  The  whole  amount 
due  subscribers  was  represented  by  certificates,  upon  which 
interest  was  paid  until  both  principal  and  interest  were  dis- 
charged, and  all  the  stock  certificates  were  cancelled.  When 
we  consider  that  this  was  done  by  the  members  of  but  seven 
lodges,  who,  a  short  time  previously,  could  scarcely  obtain 
lodgings  at  a  public-house,  and  whose  poverty  had  become 
a  proverb,  we  are  not  only  astonished,  but  filled  with  admira- 
tion. The  general  membership  through  the  Lodges  and  En- 
campments, had  assumed  $12,850,  and  the  leading  men  $1700, 
making  the  entire  loan  $14,550.  The  payment  of  this  large  sum 
was  made  by  instalments ;  no  misunderstanding  occurred  between 
the  parties  to  the  contract,  and  the  burden  was  neither  felt  nor 
complained  of;  the  plan  was  admirable,  and  the  execution  was 
in  every  way  worthy  of  the  plan.  From  that  day  Odd  Fellow- 
ship became  a  member  of  the  body  politic,  and  was  a  permanent 
fixture  in  the  community. 
10 


14:6  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

The  dedication  of  the  hall,  perhaps  the  greatest  event  in  the 
career  of  the  young  Order,  has  received  but  little  notice,  and  has 
no  place  upon  the  minutes  of  that  epoch.  The  only  contempora- 
neous account  is  to  be  found  in  the  daily  papers  of  the  time, 
which  is  here  given ;  this  is  quite  barren,  considering  the  novel 
character  and  striking  effect  of  the  pageant.  About  six  hundred 
persons  appeared  in  line  of  procession,  with  music  and  banners, 
under  a  chief  marshal  and  his  aids.  The  regalia  of  the  members 
and  various  symbolic  devices  being  all  new,  the  general  appear- 
ance was  respectable  and  imposing.  The  exercises  at  Trinity 
Church  were  in  charge  of  a  select  corps  of  amateur  vocalists,  led 
by  Bro.  John  Welch,  who  made  his  appearance  for  that  purpose ; 
and  an  ode  was  prepared  by  Bro.  John  H.  Hewitt,  who  is  still 
living.  We  have  often  thought  of  the  local  effect  of  this  occasion 
and  of  its  salutary  influence  upon  the  career  of  the  Order.  We 
look  back  to  its  interesting  incidents  with  pleasure,  recognizing 
it  as  the  initial  point  of  active  progress. 

It  gave  character  to  the  institution,  by  displaying  to  public 
gaze  the  respectable  class  of  citizens  enrolled  under  its  banners. 
In  addition  to  those  before  named  we  mention  McClintock 
Young,  afterwards  Assistant  Secretary  of  the  Treasury  of  the 
United  States ;  George  W.  Williamson  and  Jacob  Deems,  who 
helped  to  swell  our  ranks.  Everything  was  harmonious;  the 
young  members  took  possession  of  the  procession,  and  the  old 
sticklers  for  "  ancient  usage  "  moved  at  their  side,  catching  their 
enthusiasm,  and  wondering  at  finding  themselves  in  the  broad 
illumination  of  so  much  pomp  and  publicity.  Large  sums  of 
money  were  furnished  and  liberally  expended  for  flags,  banners 
and  regalia.  Every  prominent  emblem  was  emblazoned  with 
gilding  and  borne  in  the  line ;  such  as  the  Ark  of  the  Covenant, 
the  Serpent,  the  Rods  and  Wands,  elaborately  carved  and 
decorated.  Conspicuously  elevated  was  the  banner  before  de- 
scribed in  this  chapter,  which  still  remains,  a  glorious  relic  of  the 
day.  Altogether,  as  a  public  pageant,  it  was  a  grand  display. 
No  such  parade  was  anticipated,  and  it  accordingly  took  the 
masses  by  surprise.  Every  Odd  Fellow  in  Baltimore  was  jubilant, 
particularly  the  "  corporal's  guard  "  of  the  old  membership,  who 
now  saw  the  dawn  of  a  rising  future  whose  light  would  reveal 
their  principles,  and  with  them  illuminate  the  world. 


THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND.  147 

The  press  knew  nothing  of  us ;  it  was  of  the  old  school, 
which  understood  nothing  but  what  pertained  to  grave  matters 
of  church  or  state,  and  whose  news  was  mostly  confined  to  the 
advertising  column.  The  sensation-loving  reporter  had  not  yet 
found  his  way  to  the  editorial  sanctum,  to  enlighten  that  then 
sleepy  respectability  as  to  "  the  very  age  and  body  of  the  time." 
The  interviewer  was  in  the  womb  of  the  future,  and  his  appear- 
ance on  the  occasion  would  have  been  as  great  a  matter  of  aston- 
ishment as  the  procession  itself.  The  following  extracts  speak 
for  themselves : 

FROM  THE  BALTIMORE  AMERICAN,  WEDNESDAY,  APRIL  27,  1831. 

"  The  Grand  and  Subordinate  Lodges  of  Odd  Fellows  pre- 
sented a  handsome  and  imposing  appearance  in  the  procession 
which  was  formed  yesterday,  preparatory  to  the  dedication  of  the 
beautiful  new  hall  recently  erected  on  North  Gay  Street.  The 
fraternity  moved  from  the  Exchange  about  ten  o'clock  in  the 
morning,  and  after  passing  through  Second,  Water,  Calvert, 
Lombard,  Hanover,  Pratt,  Eutaw,  Franklin,  Howard,  Baltimore 
and  High  Streets,  arrived  at  Trinity  Church  about  noon,  where 
an  oration  was  delivered  by  James  L.  Ridgely,  Esq.,  and  a  full 
choir  performed  the  music  selected  for  the  occasion.  The  line  of 
procession  was  subsequently  taken  up,  and  having  passed  through 
Exeter  and  Gay  Streets,  entered  the  Hall  about  two  o'clock  P.  M.,, 
when  the  ceremony  of  dedication  took  place,  and  an  oration  was 
delivered,  we  learn,  by  Thomas  Yates  Walsh,  Esq.  The  number 
of  persons  in  the  procession  exceeded,  it  is  said,  five  hundred." 

FROM  "NILES'  REGISTER,"  APRIL  80,  1831. 

"  The  <  Odd  Fellows '  of  Baltimore  celebrated  their  anniver- 
sary in  this  city  on  Tuesday  last,  and  dedicated  their  new  and 
magnificent  hall  on  Gay  Street.  About  five  hundred  were  com- 
puted to  be  in  the  procession,  writh  their  banners  and  other 
ornaments,  and  made  a  very  respectable  and  imposing  show. 
One  oration  was  delivered,  in  Trinity  Church,  by  James  L. 
Eidgely,  Esq.,  and  another,  after  the  dedication  of  the  hall,  by 
T.  Y.  Walsh,  Esq.  The  number  of  this  association  in  Baltimore 
is  said  to  exceed  1500." 

While  all  this  was  in  progress,  the  scheme  for  obtaining 
articles  of  incorporation  from  the  Legislature  of  Maryland  was 
also  in  motion.  The  ground  for  the  hall  had  been  conveyed  to 
trustees  for  the  Grand  Lodge,  but  in  a  short  period  the  legislative 


148  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

charter  was  obtained,  and  the  trustees,  who  were  Wildey, 
Ridgely  and  others,  conveyed  the  property,  by  deed  duly  executed 
and  recorded,  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland.  And  here  we 
leave  the  old  jurisdiction,  having  seen  her  in  possession  of  all  her 
honorable  wishes — incorporated  ;  in  a  hall  sacred  to  Odd  Fellow- 
ship, the  only  one  upon  the  continent;  without  strife  or  con- 
tention or  the  shadow  of  an  anxiety,  and  in  the  possession  of  the 

*J  s  J:  «/ 

men  who  have  maintained  her  honor  at  home,  and  carried  her 
fame  wherever  on  the  green  earth  the  I.  0.  0.  F.  unfurls  its 
banner  of  Fraternity. 


AUGUSTUS  MATHIOT. 


CHAPTER    VII. 

AUGUSTUS  MATHIOT. 
THE  YOUNG  AMERICAN  OF  THE  FIRST  DECADE. 

The  men  of  the  first  decade,  of  any  prominence  then  or 
afterwards,  have  passed  away.  They  were  all  humble,  and  were 
confined  to  a  sphere  which  gave  them  no  social  consideration 
worthy  of  mention.  They  were  all  of  foreign  birth  save  one, 
and  he  was  little  better  than  the  others  in  position  when  he 
joined  their  company.  The  common  tie  led  him  to  them  and 
bound  them  together :  he  was  a  mechanic,  and  a  good  one,  and 
in  entering  a  lodge,  he  but  formed  a  closer  union  with  his  brother 
artisans.  But  here  the  similarity  ceases;  he  was  a  native 
American,  and  his  habits  and  education  separated  him  widely 
from  the  rest.  As  the  first  American  who  rose  to  distinction  in 
the  Order,  he  takes  his  place,  in  number,  the  first  of  that  long 
line  who  have  made  an  exotic  institution  native  to  the  soil. 

Augustus  Mathiot  was  born  in  Lancaster,  Pennsylvania,  on 
the  4th  day  of  August  in  the  year  1799.  His  ancestors  came 
from  France,  in  the  emigration  of  the  Huguenots  from  that 
country.  The  family  formed  connexions  with  some  of  the  best 
families  in  Pennsylvania,  and  were  always  considered  as  among 
the  most  respectable  of  those  who  fled  the  persecution.  His 
father  was  a  retiring  man,  and  gave  more  attention  to  religion 
than  trade,  and  becoming  reduced  in  his  circumstances,  removed 
to  Baltimore.  He  early  lost  his  father,  was  apprenticed  to  a 
chair-painter,  and  served  his  time  with  fidelity.  In  this  business 
he  became  proficient,  and  on  coming  of  age  followed  his  trade. 
But  soon  his  talents  were  recognized,  and  he  began  the  chair  and 
cabinet  business  on  his  own  account.  It  is  about  this  time  we 
find  him  entering  Washington  Lodge,  where  he  stands  on  the 
record  as  Number  177.  The  date  is  somewhere  in  the  early 
part  of  1823.  Some  of  his  contemporaries  have  furnished  us 
many  incidents  that  illustrate  his  character  at  that  time.  He 

(149) 


150  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

was  a  peculiar  man,  and  one  apt  to  provoke  notice  and  considera- 
tion. His  chief  trait  was  a  sensitiveness  which  he  never  over- 
came. Of  French  extraction,  politeness  and  the  forms  of  good 
society  were  part  of  his  nature.  He  loved  company,  but  he 
required  of  his  companions  the  observance  of  all  the  ordinary 
amenities.  It  followed  that  he  asked  much  more  than  he  usually 
received,  and  in  fact  more  than  he  ought  to  have  expected.  The 
result  of  this  will  be  seen  as  we  follow  him  through  his  career  as 
an  Odd  Fellow.  Of  public  opinion  he  had  the  highest  estimate ; 
honor  was  his  common  theme,  and  it  must  be  confessed  that  no 
one  had  better  reason,  for  he  had  rare  integrity,  and  was  almost 
romantic  in  his  ideas  of  what  was  due  to  this  virtue.  Among 
the  rising  young  men  he  soon  became  popular,  and  his  pleasing 
address  added  to  the  impression.  Several  of  those  who  after- 
wards became  the  solid  men  of  Baltimore  attached  themselves  to 
him,  and  were  his  friends  through  life.  Of  these  no  further 
notice  is  necessary ;  but  if  it  were  proper  to  do  so,  a  list  of  names 
the  most  honored  in  the  city  would  appear  to  have  been  warmly 
attached  to  young  Mathiot.  We  who  knew  many  of  them 
have  reason  to  be  proud  of  his  first  associations. 

But  another  marked  characteristic  was  his  love  for  reading ; 
as  a  reader  he  was  insatiate,  and  was  never  weary  of  perusing  all 
that  came  in  his  way.  Nor  did  he  confine  himself  to  literature ; 
his  taste  for  science  was  remarkable.  Natural  philosophy, 
chemistry,  but  above  all,  archaeology,  were  his  favorite  subjects. 
Of  course  his  limited  education  was  a  great  drawback  in  such 
pursuits,  but  this  did  not  deter  him.  His  thirst  seemed  only  to 
increase  with  the  draughts  he  so  laboriously  drew  from  the  wells 
of  learning.  His  habits  of  impatience  and  the  quickness  of 
his  perception  he  could  not  overcome,  and  he  passed  hur- 
riedly from  subject  to  subject,  from  book  to  book ;  but  his 
information  was  great,  and,  for  many  purposes,  of  an  interesting 
character.  It  will  be  found  that  in  his  declining  years  his  chief 
solace  came  from  this  source. 

MASONRY    AND    ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    1823. 

Mathiot  was  at  once  a  man  of  mark,  and  took  high  place  in  the 
Order.  But  in  a  few  months  he  sought  entrance  into  a  lodge  of 
Masons,  and  to  his  dismay,  was  rejected  on  the  ballot.  To  con- 
done the  matter,  he  was  notified  that  the  only  objection  to  his 


AUGUSTUS    MATHIOT.  151 

admission  was  one  easily  removed.  They  informed  him  that  he 
belonged  to  "  that  Bacchanalian  Club  of  Odd  Fellows,"  and  he 
had  only  to  leave  it  and  the  Masons  were  ready  to  receive  him. 
How  he  acted  in  this  connection  has  already  been  shown.  It 
was  just  such  an  incident  as  would  excite  Mathiot  beyond  any 
other ;  the  sense  of  wrong  stung  him  to  the  quick.  It  was  an 
open  shame,  and  he  was  not  the  man  to  rest  for  a  moment  under 
any  imputation  affecting  his  character.  He  took  no  counsel  and 
suffered  no  delay,  but  at  once  notified  St.  John's  Lodge  that  he 
spurned  their  offer.  He  did  not  rest  here ;  there  was  indeed  too 
much  ground  for  the  imputation,  and  he  saw  that  the  Masons  had 
some  reason  for  their  act.  He  appeared  before  Washington  Lodge 
in  a  condition  which  made  it  easy  to  attack  the  cause  of  his  rejec- 
tion. How  he  proceeded,  and  how  he  at  once  had  a  resolution 
passed  to  banish  liquor  from  the  lodge-room,  has  been  fully  de- 
tailed. 

It  does  not  follow  that  Mathiot  was  an  advocate  for  total  ab- 
stinence ;  this  he  never  was.  His  genial  qualities  were  always 
somewhat  convivial,  and  no  one  better  liked  a  cheerful  glass ;  but 
his  nature  rose  against  excess,  and  indeed  against  all  those  lower 
forms  of  drinking  that  lead  so  soon  to  vice.  By  nature  he  was  a 
gentleman,  and  he  abhorred  anything  that  was  low  and  gross ; 
one  may  judge  then  how  his  bile  rose  at  the  fumes  of  reeking 
pipes  and  the  smell  of  common  beer  and  gin.  His  opposition  was 
a  part  of  his  constitution,  and  he  would  have  shown  it  even  if  it 
had  not  been  forced  upon  him. 

A  writer  in  the  American  Odd  Fellow,  of  May,  1866,  has  gone 
to  great  trouble  to  establish  for  him  the  paternity  of  the  temper- 
ance reform  in  the  Order.  The  writer,  who  disguises  himself 
under  the  nom  de  plume  of  "  Dan'l  Eenz  Meataxk,"  is  well 
known  to  us.  We  recognize  at  once  the  graceful  and  classical 
pen  of  P.  G.  Eep.  Alexander  K.  Mantz,  of  Maryland,  the  author 
of  the  paper.  The  contents  are  creditable  both  to  the  head  and 
heart  of  the  brother,  but  they  are  beyond  the  real  facts  of  the 
case.  Mathiot  did  not  propose  to  remove  the  lodge  from  the 
public-house ;  that  was  a  later  movement ;  but  he  was  the  first  to 
denounce  its  presence  in  a  subordinate  lodge,  and  he  was  a  bold 
man  to  do  it.  Mathiot  himself  was  prouder  of  this  fact  than  of 
any  other  part  of  his  record.  The  article  referred  to  lias  the 
following  passage : 


152  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

"  Early  in  1849  the  question  was  mooted  in  that  (Washington) 
lodge  as  to  which  of  its  members  was  the  first  to  denounce  the 
glee 'club,  bar  system  of  early  Odd  Fellowship,  and  thereby 
secured  its  banishment,  and  per  consequence  the  elevation  of  the 
character  of  the  Order.  A  committee  was  on  motion  appointed 
to  investigate  the  records  and  traditions,  with  a  view  to  a  correct 
solution  of  the  question.  That  committee  reported  on  the  26th 
of  February,  1849,  a  preamble  and  resolutions.  The  first  set 
forth  that  it  had  been  proven  to  the  entire  satisfaction  of  the 
committee,  that  to  P.  G.  M.  Augustus  Mathiot,  of  Washington 
Lodge,  No.  1,  the  credit  was  due,  for  having  brought  about  the 
reform  indicated.  The  resolutions  were  as  follows :  Besolved, 
that  P.  G.  M.  Augustus  Mathiot,  by  his  unwearied  efforts  during 
the  infancy  of  our  beloved  Order,  was  the  instrument  by  which 
the  bar  and  its  appendages  were  banished  from  the  lodge-rooms, 
and  the  Order  purified  from  their  obnoxious  influence.  Resolved, 
that  P.  G.  M.  Mathiot  was  the  first  who  submitted  a  proposition 
to  the  effect  named  in  the  first  resolution.  These  were  unani- 
mously adopted  by  the  lodge." 

We  have  been  at  pains  to  copy  this  paragraph,  that  we  may 
do  justice  to  all  concerned.  We  have  gone  over  the  whole 
ground  in  our  second  chapter,  and  need  not  repeat  the  facts  there 
detailed.  Mathiot  there  and  here  is  given  the  credit  for  all  he 
did,  and  we  would  rather  add  to  than  detract  from  so  proud  a 
record.  As  the  first  open  advocate  of  the  change,  he  is  alone  in 
the  Order.  His  protest  was  the  beginning  of  the  great  reform, 
but  it  was  feeble,  and  for  the  time  totally  ineffectual.  Yet  it 
bore  rich  fruit  at  last ;  and  when  Columbia  Lodge  on  its  institu- 
tion pledged  itself  to  water  only  in  the  lodge-room,  the  victory 
was  near  at  hand.  But  it  must  not  be  forgotten  that  the  cup, 
the  pipe  and  song,  the  latter  sometimes  very  loose  indeed,  were 
never  banished  from  the  lodge  building  until  the  Order  in  Balti- 
more entered  its  Hall  on  Gay  Street.  "  The  spirit  was  willing, 
but  the  flesh  was  weak,"  and  even  Wildey,  when  he  kept  the  Order 
in  his  house,  had  an  oyster  and  drinking  cellar  below.  It  was 
when  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  occupied  its  own  house 
that  the  bar  was  finally  banished,  and  left  "  no  trace  behind." 
But  it  does  not  follow  that  Bro.  Mathiot  did  not  do  a  great  and 
noble  work,  or  that  his  effort  did  not  produce  lasting  and  honor- 
able results.  On  the  contrary,  it  is  a  laurel  that  must  always 


AUGUSTUS   MATHIOT.  153 

be  his,  that  lie  stood  forth  as  the  champion  of  order  and  decency 
when  he  had  no  helpers ;  that  lie  never  gave  it  up ;  that  he  was 
always  with  the  foremost  of  the  later  reformers ;  that  he  was 
superior  and  more  potent  than  all  others  at  the  beginning,  and 
that  he  was  worthy  of  his  position.  Bro.  Fennell,  in  a  letter  on 
the  subject  in  1871,  says :  "  I  shall  never  forget  Brother  Mathiot's 
manner  in  advocating  the  passage  of  his  resolution ;  it  took  us 
all  by  surprise.  I  believe  there  was  but  little  opposition ;  but 
Brother  Mathiot's  powerful  appeal,  and  the  pleasant  manner  in 
which  he  made  it,  overcame  it  easily.  I  repeat  it,  I  never  shall 
forget  it  —  it  was  irresistible."  In  another  letter  he  feelingly 
says :  "  Brother  Mathiot's  appeal  not  only  reformed  the  lodge, 
but  had  an  equally  powerful  effect  on  many  of  the  members 
individually.  I  shall  never  cease  to  remember  it  with  gratitude." 
By  these  extracts  we  discover  that  the  effect  at  the  time  was 
very  great,  and  no  doubt  was  of  a  much  deeper  and  more  durable 
nature  than  is  shown  in  the  current  lodge  history. 

THE   TEMPERANCE    QUESTION   IN    1823. 

Men  of  this  day  have  no  conception  of  the  public  opinion  of 
1823  on  the  temperance  question.  A  glance  backwards  to  that 
time  will  shed  much  light  on  this  incident.  It  will  be  found 
that  no  total  abstinence  society  existed  at  that  time,  or  indeed 
any  society  which  interdicted  the  use  of  liquor.  True,  in  1808 
u  The  Temperate  Society  of  Moreau  and  Northumberland," 
Saratoga  County,  New  York,  began  a  feeble  movement  with 
forty-three  members.  This  was  the  first  known  society  of  the 
kind,  and  the  pledge  is  a  curiosity:  "No  member  shall  drink 
rum,  gin,  whiskey,  wine  or  any  distilled  spirits,  or  compositions 
of  the  same,  or  any  of  them,  except  by  the  advice  of  a  physician, 
or  in  case  of  actual  disease  (also  excepting  wine  at  public  din- 
ners), under  penalty  of  twenty-five  cents.  Provided  that  this 
article  shall  not  infringe  on  any  religious  ordinance."  And 
further,  that  "  No  member  shall  be  intoxicated,  under  the  penalty 
of  fifty  cents"  And  again,  "  No  member  shall  offer  any  of  said 
liquors  to  any  other  member,  or  urge  any  other  person  to  drink 
thereof,  under  the  penalty  of  twenty-five  cents  for  each  offence." 
Such  were  substantially  the  scope  and  requirements  of  all  the 
earlier  temperance  societies  until  1836,  when  for  the  first  time 
"  The  American  Temperance  Union  "  adopted  the  principle  of 


154  AMERICAN   ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

total  abstinence.  Mathiot  was  fully  abreast  of  the  reform 
then  in  progress,  and  his  influence  began  in  the  Order  what  no 
other  had  even  thought  of  in  the  same  connection.  Measured 
by  public  sentiment,  he  was  a  reformer  in  the  first  rank,  and  will 
be  honored  accordingly. 

HIS   PKOGEESS   IN   THE   ORDEK. 

But  at  this  point  he  drops  from  the  record,  and  cannot  be 
traced  in  his  lodge  for  several  years ;  but  we  know  that  he  was 
active  and  efficient,  and  gave  it  great  attention.  He  was  in  the 
minority,  and  had  but  few  to  sympathize  with  his  tastes  and  hab- 
its ;  he  was  considered  somewhat  visionary,  and  was  too  much  of 
a  reformer  to  gain  the  general  confidence.  Thus,  we  find  him 
always  at  work,  but  subordinately,  until  1828,  when  his  merit 
absolutely  forced  his  passage  of  the  chairs.  On  the  16th  of  Octo- 
ber, 1828,  he  appeared,  was  elected  and  admitted  a  member  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland.  Here  he  at  once  assumed  his 
true  importance,  and  had  full  recognition  by  that  body.  On  the 
18th  of  March,  1830,  he  was  among  the  petitioners  for  a  charter 
for  Gratitude  Lodge,  No.  5,  which  was  granted.  He  did 
this  to  help  in  organizing  it,  and  afterwards  returned  to 
Washington  Lodge.  As  an  indication  of  the  struggle  then 
going  on  between  the  old  and  the  new  elements,  we  would 
state  that  the  name  given  to  this  lodge  was  the  result  of  a 
compromise.  It  was  to  have  been  called  "Wildey  Lodge," 
but  the  applicants  positively  refused  the  name.  Wildey 
was  then  so  wedded  to  the  old  element  that  the  new  men  were 
deeply  offended  ;  they  therefore  expressed  their  feelings  by  exclud- 
ing his  name;  but  a  sense  of  justice  led  them  to  consider  his  emi- 
nent services,  and  they  paid  him  the  compliment  of  expressing 
that  feeling  by  the  word  "  Gratitude."  Mathiot  led  this  move- 
ment. To  indicate  his  position,  we  may  state,  that  soon  after,  he 
was  made  chairman  of  the  committee  to  submit  a  code  of  general 
laws  for  the  government  of  subordinate  lodges.  On  the  20th  day 
of  October,  1830,  he  was  elected  D.  G.  M.,  and  James  L.  Ridgely, 
G.  Secretary.  Here,  at  length,  he  had  free  scope  for  his 
energy,  and  associates  ready  to  sympathize  and  assist.  Here 
began  also  that  series  of  events  that  kept  him  from  attaining 
all  the  honors  of  the  Order.  At  a  meeting  held  on  January 
22d,  1831,  the  Grand  Master  resigned  his  office,  leaving  Mathiot 
in  the  chair. 


AUGUSTUS    MATHIOT.  155 

Now  the  peculiarities  of  this  brother  at  once  make  their  ap- 
pearance. His  romantic  sense  of  honor  forced  him  to  decline  a 
position  to  which  he  had  not  been  elected ;  accordingly,  at  the 
close  of  the  meeting,  he  resigned.  But  the  majority  did  not  share 
his  sensitiveness,  and  resented  such  extreme  delicacy.  The 
result  was,  that  although  nominated  for  Grand  Master,  he 
wras  defeated,  but  was  again  elected  D.  G.  Master.  This 
touched  Mathiot  deeply  and  sorely  ;  but  he  again  took  the  place, 
and  served  the  residue  of  the  term.  At  the  next  election,  Octo- 
ber 15th,  1831,  he  was  again  defeated  for  Grand  Master;  the 
members  being  still  provoked  by  his  former  declension.  On  the 
20th  January,  1832,  his  term  expired,  and  he  retired ;  the  feeling 
went  so  far  that  he  was  not  assigned  a  place  on  any  committee  by 
the  new  administration.  He  was  also  defeated  for  Representative 
to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  six  months  afterwards, 
by  a  large  vote.  He  was  again  defeated  for  Grand  Master  in 
1833  and  1834,  and  being  nominated  in  1835,  declined  to  stand. 
By  this  time  he  became  better  and  more  favorably  known,  and 
a  reactionary  feeling  set  in ;  so  that  no  one  could  be  induced  to 
oppose  him,  and  on  January  22d,  1836,  he  was  elected  Grand 
Master  by  acclamation. 

All  this  did  not  abate  his  ardor  in  the  cause,  or  induce  him  to 
neglect  the  Order ;  on  the  contrary,  he  was  never  more  attentive, 
never  more  solicitous  for  the  cause ;  he  had  joined  from  a  sense  of 
duty,  and  could  not  be  diverted  from  his  purpose.  His  appreci- 
ation in  other  quarters  no  doubt  gave  a  keen  edge  to  the  un- 
friendly treatment  of  his  Grand  Lodge.  He  entered  the  body  in 
October  1828,  and  was  singled  out  by  the  leaders  for  special  and 
superior  work ;  they  were  in  the  federal  Grand  Lodge,  where 
they  had  a  majority,  and  the  young  member  was  at  once  called 
to  a  post  of  honor.  On  May  4th,  1829,  he  was  elected  Grand 
Secretary  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  and  held  that 
office  until  September  2d,  1833.  At  the  end  of  the  term  he  was 
elected  Grand  Treasurer  of  the  same  body,  and  held  the  office 
until  October  9th,  1835.  At  the  organization  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  the  United  States,  William  Williams  became  Grand  Secretary. 
Williams  absconded  in  1827,  and  John  J.  Roach  and  John  Stan- 
had  filled  the  office  pro  tern.,  until  Mathiot  was  elected. 
From  Fennell  to  Starr  inclusive,  he  was  by  far  the  best  of  them 
all.  The  place  was,  at  the  time,  merely  a  clerk's  office  for  the 


156  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

record ;  there  was  indeed  much  need  of  some  one  to  give  his  whole 
time  and  energy  to  the  place,  but  the  time  was  unpropitious. 
Wildey,  at  Entwisle's  death,  had  the  choice,  and  he  selected  Wil- 
liams, an  Englishman.  His  nationality  was  his  only  merit,  and 
his  services  were  more  an  injury  than  a  benefit ;  he  betrayed  his 
patron,  and  absconded  with  about  $1200  belonging  to  Wildey  and 
G.  M.  Scotchburn. 

At  Wildey 's  instance,  the  several  trials  were  made  which  at 
length  resulted  in  the  election  of  Mathiot.  But  the  sensitive 
and  faithful  secretary  was  entirely  unfitted  to  cope  with  the 
rugged  blacksmith ;  his  nature  was  retiring,  and  his  modesty  was 
almost  a  defect  in  his  organization ;  hence  he  served  well  and 
gave  a  good  record,  but  he  did  not  become  Wildey's  counsellor 
or  aspire  to  guide  him.  The  time  was  not  yet  when  the  one-man 
power  should  devolve  on  the  many,  or  when  some  bold  man 
should  challenge  Wildey's  supremacy.  Yet  Mathiot  was  not  over- 
looked by  the  founder,  wTho  turned  his  talents  to  a  good  account. 
Many  an  address  and  resolution  bore  the  name  of  Wildey,  but 
the  hand  of  Mathiot  had  furnished  them.  Sometimes  he  was 
quite  happy  in  these  efforts,  and  generally  gave  great  satisfaction 
in  this  and  all  other  parts  of  his  work.  His  whole  term  of  Sec- 
retary was  with  Wildey,  and  he  went  out  on  the  final  retirement 
of  that  brother.  The  office  of  Grand  Treasurer  could  hardly  be 
said  to  have  existed  before  this  time ;  Wildey  and  Welch,  as  has 
been  shown  elsewhere,  being  the  stewards  of  the  lodge;  the 
former  generally  furnishing  the  funds.  So  that  in  1834  Mathiot 
had  no  settlement  to  make  as  Treasurer,  but  the  settlement  was 
made  by  Thomas  Wildey,  acting  Grand  Treasurer.  The  books 
were  closed  by  Wildey's  retaining  $284.58  for  advances,  leaving 
the  elected  Treasurer  a  balance  of  $8.52.  Bro.  Mathiot  then 
opened  an  account,  and  in  the  next  year  reported  $308.49.  In 
1835  he  reported  $415.62,  and  paid  over  a  balance  of  $78.60  to 
his  successor.  As  before  related,  he  became  Grand  Master  of 
Maryland  the  ensuing  year.  At  the  important  session  of  1840 
he  was  a  proxy  representative  in  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United 
States,  and  did  good  service  in  that  body  for  his  constituents. 
But  we  now  turn  to  his  labors  in  another  field.  In  1827,  mem- 
bers of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  formed  an  Encampment 
of  Patriarchs,  and  he  was  soon  a  member.  He  duly  passed  the 
chairs,  and  united  with  others  in  procuring  a  charter  for  the  first 


AUGUSTUS    MATHIOT.  157 

Grand  Encampment  in  September,  1831.  "Wildey  was  the  first 
Grand  Patriarch,  and  he  was  succeeded  by  Mathiot,  thus  securing 
to  him  the  prestige  of  having  been  the  second  on  the  roll  of  that 
eminent  position. 

In  the  meantime  he  became  known  to  the  whole  brotherhood 
in  Baltimore  by  his  presence  and  services  on  important  occasions. 
He  was  a  ready  speaker,  and  wrote  well ;  his  stores  of  information 
were  extensive,  and  his  intelligence  on  all  questions  made  him 
acceptable.  At  home  he  had  nothing  to  desire,  and  he  had  put 
his  name  in  enduring  form  among  the  proceedings  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  United  States.  He  had  reached  his  acme  as  to 
place  and  influence,  but  he  did  not  believe  it.  The  ambition  to 
stir  in  the  higher  circles  of  the  Order,  to  sit  in  the  federal  Grand 
Lodge,  it  may  be  to  pass  its  chairs,  took  possession  of  him.  He 
knew  his  just  value,  and  that  in  fitness  he  surpassed  many 
who  had  easily  passed  before  him.  But  this  desire  was  not 
generally  perceived,  nor  indeed  known  or  guessed  at,  beyond  the 
circle  of  his  intimates.  He  was  deeply  impressed  with  a  sense 
of  the  ingratitude  which,  overlooking  so  much  merit,  conferred 
its  honors  on  inferior  men.  He  was  partly  right  and  partly 
wrong.  He  was  in  most  things  certainly  the  superior  of  more 
fortunate  brothers,  but  not  in  those  qualities  that  ensure  success. 
His  sensitiveness  had  been  growing  on  him ;  his  sense  of  his 
own  importance  was  increasing,  and  his  rank  as  a  man  of 
business  was  now  assured.  But  he  had,  with  all  his  ambition,  a 
modesty  rarely  found,  and  shrank  from  a  contest  as  another 
might  from  a  blow.  He  could  not  solicit  votes,  even  by  that 
honorable  implication  which  is  always  commendable.  It  was 
not  merely  an  election  he  looked  for,  but  a  call  to  come  forward 
by  the  common  voice ;  not  a  majority,  but  unanimity.  If  he  had 
pressed  his  claims,  he  would  have  had  much  of,  if  not  all  he 
sought ;  but  he  did  not.  Sometimes  his  modest  reserve  was  taken 
for  coldness  and  indifference,  sometimes  for  an  assumption  which 
repelled.  At  length  he  ceased  to  expect  such  honors,  but  to  the 
very  last  felt  the  pang  which  tells  of  hope  deferred  and 
defeated. 

But  no  one  must  conclude  that  his  nature  was  soured  or  his 
energies  in  the  cause  relaxed.  To  Washington  Lodge  at  least,  as 
its  old  members  passed  away,  he  remained  to  be  loved,  admired 
and  venerated.  The  ruling  men  of  the  Order  had  only  to  meet 


158  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

him  to  give  him  the  full  measure  of  their  confidence.  Hence- 
forth he  became  a  model  workman  in  Maryland.  His  lodge  was 
dear  to  him  as  his  own  flesh,  and  he  gladly  sought  its  shelter  as  a 
kindly  refuge.  There  he  became  a  constant  attendant  for  nearly 
forty  years,  becoming  by  his  age  its  father,  and  by  his  good 
deeds  its  benefactor.  At  all  the  sessions  of  his  Grand  Lodge 
and  Grand  Encampment  he  sat  in  the  place  of  honor,  and  was 
second  to  none  in  the  general  esteem. 

HIS    SUCCESS    IN    BUSINESS    AND    HIS    LIBERALITY. 

Here  another  part  of  his  character  shone  forth  conspicuously ; 
his  liberality.  His  wras  truly  an  open  hand  and  generous  heart. 
Fortune  had  come  to  him  in  his  business,  which  had  now  become 
large  and  valuable.  He  began  an  export  business  to  South  Amer- 
ica, and  wealth  poured  in  upon  him.  His  family  relations  were 
such  as  to  round  the  circle  of  his  happiness ;  sons  and  daughters 
of  marked  intelligence  and  refinement  made  his  home-life  a  holi- 
day. His  social  station  was  high,  and  he  was  able  to  gratify  his 
tastes  in  company,  where  his  graceful  bearing  and  genial  humor 
made  him  an  ornament.  Many  of  his  early  friends  had,  in  like 
manner,  won  their  way,  and  he  stood  among  them  as  a  friend  and 
citizen  of  whom  all  were  proud.  All  this  mellowed  his  nature^ 
quieted  his  nervous  diffidence,  and  helped  in  every  way  to  harmo- 
nize his  life. 

As  he  was  most  able  to  give,  so  he  was  ever  ready,  whatever 
and  whenever  the  call ;  he  was  indeed  a  generous  giver,  and  many 
a  family  may  thank  him  for  its  sustenance  and  preservation.  On 
one  occasion  a  seedy  Odd  Fellow  called  on  him  for  assistance. 
P.  G.  M.  Mathiot,  in  his  usually  punctilious  way,  examined  his  cre- 
dentials and  listened  to  his  story.  The  brother  was  very  worthy, 
but  very  poor;  and  as  he  told  his  tale,  Mathiot  gazed  upon  him 
with  great  compassion.  Finally  he  spoke  of  his  dependence 
upon  his  brethren,  and  the  P.  G.  Master  began  unconsciously 
to  draw  off  his  coat.  The  tale  proceeded,  the  coat  was 
in  the  hands  of  Mathiot,  who  tearfully  besought  the  speaker  to 
put  it  on.  The  brother  took  it  and  left ;  those  who  witnessed  the 
act  say  that  the  veteran  Odd  Fellow  almost  tore  the  rags  from 
the  back  of  the  needy  brother  to  put  his  coat  upon  him. 

Another  incident  of  a  different  character  will  show  his  pecu- 
liar traits.  He  was,  later  in  his  career,  much  in  request  to  talk 


AUGUSTUS    MATHIOT.  159 

and  lecture  to  the  lodges ;  on  one  of  these  occasions  he  sought 
the  writer,  to  act  for  him  in  his  absence.  The  lecture  was 
delivered;  the  P.  G.  Master  made  inquiries  if  it  was  sat- 
isfactory ;  and  learning  that  it  was,  immediately  sent  a  fine  office 
chair  to  his  substitute,  as  a  token  of  his  approval.  Noble  and 
generous  heart,  now  at  rest  forever!  In  that  chair,  writh  all  the 
memories  it  conjures  up  —  sitting  and  recalling  those  gentle 
tones  and  winning  manners,  that  pure  soul  of  honor,  that  ideal 
Odd  Fellow  —  he  now  limns  this  picture,  and  hangs  it  high  in 
this  history. 

A  GREEN   OLD   AGE. 

In  his  old  age  he  had  everything  to  smooth  his  passage,  but 
his  chief  delight  was  in  books.  We  can  see  him  now,  as 
night  after  night  he  sat  in  the  Odd  Fellows'  library,  poring  over 
the  volumes,  or  passing  through  its  alcoves,  with  a  very 
ecstasy  of  pleasure.  We  see  him,  erect  and  vigorous  for  his 
age ;  a  little  over  the  middle  height ;  a  slender  man,  with  a  bright 
eye  and  brisk  manner,  with  glass  in  hand  examining  the  numer- 
ous titles,  and  literally  gloating  over  the  crowded  catalogue.  He 
thought  "  that  none  but  the  wilfully  blind  could  plead  darkness 
in  the  midst  of  such  light,  and  he  blessed  the  memory  of  those 
faithful  servants,  the  authors,  who  have  left  their  blood,  their 
spirits,  their  lives,  in  these  precious  papers,  and  have  willingly 
wasted  themselves  into  these  enduring  monuments,  to  give  light 
unto  others."  Chronology  and  archaeology  were  his  passion,  and 
what  was  dry  and  difficult  to  others,  was  to  him  as  absorbing  and 
delightful  as  the  pages  of  Scott  or  Dickens.  The  Grand  Kepre- 
sentatives  who  were  present  in  Baltimore  in  1865,  will  remember 
the  summons  to  meet  him  at  his  residence ;  the  banquet,  the  toasts 
and  the  fraternal  greetings  under  his  hospitable  roof,  where  they 
sat  as  a  great  family  at  his  fireside,  and  in  gay  and  grateful  terms 
acknowledged  his  fraternal  attentions. 


HIS    DEATH    AND    THE    "THREE    ODD    LINKS. 

Thus  Mathiot  declined  as  a  summer's  day,  bright  and  genial  to 
the  close.  His  religious  views  and  feelings  were  peculiar ;  but 
nominally  he  was  attached  to  the  German  Reformed  Church,  in 
the  interests  of  which  he  expended  time  and  money.  His  belief 
in  man's  immortality  and  his  accountability  to  a  Supreme  Being 


160  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

was  strong  and  unshaken,  and  in  full  confidence  of  a  Father's 
love  he  was  not  afraid  to  die.  Suddenly,  in  the  midst  of  his 
family,  without  a  sigh  or  struggle,  on  the  12th  day  of  July,  1872, 
he  took  his  departure.  He  had  no  previous  illness,  no  confine- 
ment to  the  house,  no  special  warning ;  but  he  was  waiting  for 
the  call,  and  the  old  Odd  Fellow  entered,  as  was  meet  and  fitting; 
into  the  Celestial  Lodge. 

One  incident  in  his  biography  will  conclude  this  memoir. 
Somewhere  about  1822  a  secret  association  was  formed,  called  the 
"  THREE  ODD  LINKS  ";  its  first  members  were  Wildey,  Boyd  and 
Couth.  Its  origin  as  to  place,  manner,  time  and  object,  is 
unknown,  except  that  it  had  reference  to  something  in  the  Order. 
There  could  be  no  larger  number  than  three,  and  upon  a  vacancy, 
it  was  to  be  filled  at  once  by  those  remaining.  On  the  death  of 
P.  G.  Couth,  the  survivors  selected  P.  G.  M.  Mathiot  as  the  ODD 
LINK.  The  secret,  whatever  it  was,  has  never  transpired.  Some 
thought  it  a  commemoration  of  the  first  half  decade,  others  a 
secret  pledge  never  to  desert  the  Order,  others  to  secure  a  private 
celebration  of  the  natal  day  of  Washington  Lodge,  and  again  that 
it  was  a  renewal  of  the  ancient  vows  of  the  old  members.  What- 
ever color  existed  for  these  guesses,  it  is  certain  the  "  Links  " 
privately  met  on  the  26th  of  April,  in  every  year,  and  parted 
with  tokens  of  the  fondest  friendship.  On  Wildey's  death  it  fell 
to  Marley  to  fill  his  place ;  but  darker  days  came  on,  and  old  age 
was  upon  them.  Marley  passed  away,  and  before  he  had  a  suc- 
cessor, Boyd  also  was  no  more.  Mathiot  was  the  last  man,  "  the 
odd  link,"  but  not  in  a  trinity  of  numbers.  He  stood  alone,  and 
as  if  the  object  of  the  arrangement  was  completed,  left  the 
vacancies  unfilled.  In  the  same  beautiful  cemetery,  not  far 
apart,  with  the  roof-tree  of  the  Common  Father  above  them,  they 
have  met  again.  Wildey,  Marley,  Mathiot — the  THREE  ODD 
LINKS  ;  do  not  the  silver  aspens  that  tremble  above  them  whisper 
of  the  old  fraternity  ? 

God's-Acre  is  a  sacred  dwelling-place ;  how  sweetly  sleep  the 
household  where  three  such  hearts  have  mingled  into  one ! 


•  •  •  I 


V 


RICHARD  MARLEY. 


CHAPTER   VIII. 

RICHARD    MARLEY. 

Honor  and  shame  from  no  condition  rise ; 
Act  well  your  part, — there  all  the  honor  lies 

—POPE. 

We  have  been  dealing,  for  the  most  part,  with  men  who 
were  never  known  among  the  refined  arid  educated.  Our  walks 
have  been  among  the  workshops,  where  the  toiling  masses  pass 
weary  lives  of  hardship.  True,  the  scenes  have  been  laid  in  a 
favored  land,  where  the  poor  become  rich  and  the  obscure  eminent : 
the  paradise  of  the  indigent,  where  public  sentiment  extols 
merit,  however  clothed,  and  where  no  one  may  despair  of  rising 
to  any  position  of  which  he  is  worthy.  Liberty  has  diffused  itself 
in  all  directions ;  it  is  found  in  social  life,  in  the  church,  and  in 
the  state.  It  does  not  astonish  us  when  a  tailor  becomes  Presi- 
dent, or  a  shoemaker  from  Massachusetts  presides  over  the 
national  Senate.  It  follows  that  a  certain  dignity  attends  every 
citizen  ;  a  man  of  merit  may  ply  a  trade,  and  at  the  same  time  be 
a  man  of  mark  in  the  country.  The  subject  of  this  sketch  is  an 
example  often  met  with  among  us.  He  began  at  the  bottom  of 
the  scale,  and  in  his  general  circumstances  never  ascended.  But 
in  one  direction  he  moved  above  his  surroundings,  with  an  ease 
and  dignity  which  were  all  his  own.  To  the  world  he  died  as  lie 
lived,  an  unpolished  workman;  respected  to  be  sure,  and  beyond 
the  reach  of  calumny,  but  in  few  circumstances  differing  from 
other  hard-working  mechanics.  But  in  his  special  sphere,  as  an 
Odd  Fellow,  he  assumes  a  place  so  high  and  honorable  that  his 
name  has  spread  over  all  the  land.  There  he  stood  for  near  half 
a  century,  a  very  tower  of  strength,  a  trusted  counsellor,  a  digni- 
fied officer,  a  model  member.  In  that  great  family  he  sat  in  a 
grand  circle  of  admiring  children ;  his  words  were  cherished,  his 
acts  venerated,  and  his  walks  were  among  thousands  who  rose  to 
do  him  reverence. 


162  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  classification  of  society  will  show  howT  varied  are  the 
qualities  that  make  up  a  great  character.  Some,  like  Midas, 
turn  all  they  touch  into  gold ;  others,  by  speech  or  with  the  pen 
adorn  everything  they  indite  or  utter ;  others,  by  great  power  of 
will  bend  men  to  their  purposes :  some  carry  everything  before 
them  by  sheer  activity  and  persistency;  and  others  again,  by 
calm  wisdom  and  consistent  conduct,  extort  from  all.  the  utmost 
respect  and  confidence.  But  further  illustration  is  not  neces- 
sary. Our  subject  was  a  person  who,  under  every  discour- 
agement, made  himself  a  record  that  survives  him;  his  good 
works  will  forever  praise  him,  and  the  lesson  of  his  life  will  not 
be  lost  to  the  world. 

ODD    FELLOWSHIP    A    FIELD    OF    LABOR. 

Odd  Fellowship  is  a  practical  institution.  Its  whole  system 
is  one  of  labor ;  in  all  its  parts  it  requires  constant  attention ; 
its  machinery  is  not  self-moving,  but  regular  and  patient  effort  is 
the  law  of  its  existence.  A  lodge-room  is  a  work-room,  and  a 
busy  one ;  members  must  be  made,  degrees  conferred,  money  col- 
lected and  disbursed,  the  sick  reported,  children  provided  for 
and  widows  relieved.  Its  centre  is  its  treasury ;  its  great  con- 
servative officer  the  Treasurer.  Here  means  are  devised  to  carry 
on  the  plan ;  financial  ability  is  recognized,  and  integrity  held  at 
its  true  value.  The  lodge-room  is  the  home  of  the  family  where 
the  new  member  first  arrives.  Here  quarrels  are  settled,  crimes 
punished,  and  comfort  and  aid  given  to  the  persecuted.  The 
Odd  Fellow  who  does  not  love  his  lodge  is  truly  unfortunate.  It 
is  the  bond  of  union  —  the  secret  of  our  power.  The  subordi- 
nate lodges  are  oases  that,  fresh  and  green,  furnish  the  living 
beauty  and  fadeless  laurels  of  the  Order.  Presence  at  the 
meetings  is  a  primary  duty,  and  is  indispensable.  Constant 
attendance  is  with  us  a  cardinal  virtue.  The  institution  would 
soon  die  but  for  the  faithful  few  who  tread  from  year  to  year  the 
beaten  track,  who  are  present  at  all  seasons  and  in  every  station, 
who  keep  the  work  alive  and  ensure  its  execution.  Such  men 
are  the  life-blood  of  the  Order ;  or,  to  change  the  figure,  they  are 
the  "  regulars,"  and  the  others  but  a  sort  of  uniformed  militia.  To 
this  small  but  compact  army  of  true  and  tried  brethren,  the 
narrative  of  a  most  extraordinary  amount  of  lodge  labor  will  be 
welcome.  Acceptable,  because  the  subject  was  a  veteran,  and 


RICHARD    MARLEY.  163 

above  all,  because  he  was  the  prince  of  workmen;  a  steward  of 
the  Order,  who  received  and  made  members,  a  moulder  of  lodge 
policy,  a  fibre  of  the  nucleus  which  holds  the  framework  to- 
gether. 

HIS    HISTORY    AND    WORK. 

RICHARD  MARLEY  was  born  in  the  city  of  Philadelphia,  No- 
vember 12th,  1791,  of  poor  but  reputable  parents.  He  learned 
the  trade  of  shoemaker,  which  he  pursued  all  his  life.  He  removed 
to  Baltimore  in  1820,  and  some  time  in  1823  joined  Franklin 
Lodge,  No.  2.  His  services  at  once  became  valuable,  and  he 
rapidly  passed  through  every  office  in  the  lodge.  On  the  18th 
of  October,  1825,  he  was  duly  elected  a  member  of  the  G.  Lodge 
of  Maryland,  on  the  night  of  the  receipt  of  the  Patriarchal  Degree 
from  England.  At  the  February  session,  1826,  he  was  made  G. 
Warden,  and  in  April  took  his  seat  as  Proxy  Rep.  for  New  York 
in  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  In  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Maryland  he  was  constantly  at  work.  In  this  year  he  reported 
eighteen  rules  of  order  for  its  adoption,  which  were  so  complete 
that  they  have  been  substantially  in  use  ever  since.  He  was  also 
on  the  committee  to  regulate  payment  of  dues,  and  the  chairman 
of  another  to  attend  the  General  Assembly  of  the  State,  to  pro- 
cure an  act  of  incorporation.  His  rise  in  all  directions  was  rapid. 
At  the  end  of  the  two  years'  term  of  G.  Warden  he  was  elected 
D.  G.  M.,  which  office  he  held  until  January  15th,  1831.  During 
this  period  he,  with  Wildey  and  others,  was  selected  to  revise  the 
degrees,  and  was  on  nearly  every  committee  of  importance.  Here 
he  paused  in  his  career  in  that  body.  The  hall  on  Gay  Street 
was  nearly  completed,  and  he  was  chosen  the  janitor  and  moved 
into  the  building. 

But  he  had  not  been  idle  elsewhere;  in  1825  he  became  a 
member  of  Encampment  No.  1,  and  afterwards  was  a  charter 
member  of  Salem  Encampment  No.  2.  These  were  the  two 
lodges  composing  the  Patriarchal  Order,  which  were  turned  over 
to  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  in  1832.  The  first  G.  En- 
campment being  formed,  these  two  became  its  first  subordinates, 
on  the  17th  January,  1833.  Marley  served  as  Proxy  Rep.  for 
New  York  in  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  from  February, 
1826,  until  September  3d,  1832.  This  was  a  great  compliment. 
There  were  others  of  great  prominence,  willing  to  serve,  and 


164  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

some,  like  Mathiot,  of  more  apparent  capacity.  But  he  was  a 
man  to  win  confidence  and  retain  it,  and  his  selection,  at  first  a 
mere  accident,  was  persisted  in  by  the  constituency.  But  sud- 
denly he  lapsed  from  the  Order ;  his  name  was  reported  at  the 
close  of  1832  as  one  of  the  expelled,  and  his  career  came  to  a  dis- 
astrous termination.  The  story  is  one  of  interest,  and  at  its  con- 
clusion presents  a  rare  picture  of  the  man.  Marley  was  a  me- 
chanic of  the  earlier  type ;  on  Sunday  he  rested,  after  five  days' 
labor,  but  Monday  was  sacred  to  St.  Crispin.  He  was  indeed  a 
devotee  of  "  Blue  Monday."  Sober,  grave  and  industrious  on  all 
other  days,  on  this  day  he  gave  himself  up  to  the  inebriating 
bowl.  The  habits  of  his  brethren  were  ill-calculated  to  win  him 
from  the  vice ;  they  were  true  boon-fellows,  and  were  ever  ready 
to  join  him  in  a  carouse.  The  result  was  pitiable  ;  the  strong  man 
became  a  slave,  the  cautious  man  imprudent,  and  the  good  Odd 
Fellow  but  a  wreck  of  his  former  self.  In  the  midst  of  this  degen- 
eration he  found  cause  for  dissatisfaction  in  his  Grand  Lodge. 

FIFTH    DEGREE    MEMBERS. 

It  has  been  shown  elsewThere  that  the  Grand  Lodge  was  origi- 
nally composed  of  P.  Grands,  wrho  came  in  by  the  ballot.  This 
was  not  satisfactory  to  many ;  a  feeling  sprung  up  on  the  subject 
which  caused  much  trouble  in  Maryland.  On  21st  July,  1831, 
the  crisis  came.  It  was  then  resolved  to  so  amend  the  constitu- 
tion of  the  Grand  Lodge  as  "  to  open  and  work  exclusively  in  the 
fifth  degree."  Marley  voted  with  the  minority,  and  resented 
this  departure  from  law  and  usage.  In  fact,  when  the  project 
was  first  mooted,  some  voted  for  throwing  the  resolution  "  under 
the  table."  It  was  afterwards  proposed,  that  when  admitted, 
they  should  take  an  obligation,  but  this  wras  defeated.  Last  of 
all,  Marley  proposed  that  when  admitted  they  should  "  be  quali- 
fied as  P.  Grands  are  ";  this  was  decided  in  the  negative,  and  the 
fifth  degree  members  were  duly  admitted.  This  hasty  action  fell 
upon  Marley  like  a  thunder-clap.  In  his  ordinary  condition  he 
would  have  reluctantly  submitted  to  the  majority ;  but  his  mind 
had  lost  its  balance,  and  he  would  not  be  reconciled.  He 
attended  until  the  June  session,  1832,  and  as  a  mere  spectator  un- 
til November  following,  and  then  came  no  more.  But  his  was  no 
gentle  departure;  he  took  a  number  in  his  train,  and  left  behind 
a  large  minority  who  sympathized  with  him. 


RICHARD    MARLEY.  165 

THE    SPURIOUS    LODGE. 

He  and  his  friends  at  once  obtained  a  charter  from  the  spuri- 
ous Grand  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  upon  petition  of  Benja- 
min Daffin,  Thomas  Hall,  Daniel  Weaver,  Richard  Marley  and 
others.  It  first  held  its  meetings  on  Commerce  Street,  afterwards 
on  Lombard  Street,  and  finally  at  the  corner  of  Hanover  and 
Pratt  Streets.  On  the  13th  of  January,  the  matter  came  before 
the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland,  which  adopted  a  general  law,  as 
follows :  "  Any  brother  who  shall  be  concerned  in  organizing, 
or  who  shall  give  countenance  and  support,  or  shall  visit  any 
lodge  or  lodges  in  the  State  of  Maryland,  purporting  to  be  Odd 
Fellows,  and  not  possessing  a  legal  and  valid  charter,  duly 
granted  and  presented  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  shall 
be  deemed  unworthy  of  fellowship,  and  shall,  upon  satisfactory 
proof,  be  suspended  or  expelled,  at  the  option  of  the  lodge."  Under 
this  law  Marley  was  promptly  expelled ;  and  as  the  reports  for  1832 
were  sent  in  afterwards,  he  is  reported  as  having  been  deprived 
in  that  year.  The  Journal  says  that  he  was  allowed  to  return 
on  the  15th  of  October,  1835,  soon  after  the  death  of  the  spuri- 
ous lodge,  which  lived  but  one  year.  Be  that  as  it  may,  we 
find  no  record  of  him  in  the  Grand  Lodge  until  January,  1836, 
when  he  was  elected  upon  the  joint  standing  committee  on 
education. 

HIS    RETURN. 

The  previous  record  discloses  refusal  after  refusal  to  allow  the 
lodges  to  admit  Marley's  confederates,  but  it  was  far  different  in 
the  case  of  the  leader.  We  can  only  account  for  it  by  the  tender 
feeling  which  existed  for  him  in  his  folly.  He  was  allowed  to 
return  and  to  re-enter  the  Grand  Lodge  by  a  large  vote  of  his 
brethren.  There  was  reason  for  this;  he  was  himself  again. 
He  had  reformed  his  life,  and  was  again  the  manly  brother  of  the 
past.  They  met  him  more  than  half  way,  and  took  him  cheer- 
fully back  to  the  old  haunts.  He  was  indeed  reformed;  the 
reaction  had  touched  his  pride  and  roused  his  will.  The  bowl 
had  alienated  him,  and  he  solemnly  abjured  it  forever.  That 
pledge  was  never  broken,  and  for  forty  years  he  neither  tasted, 
touched  nor  handled  the  enemy  that  had  caused  his  downfall.  He 
always  professed  to  have  been  saved  by  his  love  for  the  Order 
and  by  the  kindness  of  his  brethren,  and  no  clearer  instance  is 


166  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

on  record  of  the  influence  of  our  association  upon  moral  character. 
To  test  his  resolution  he  also  abjured  the  use  of  tobacco,  and  he 
never  forfeited  the  pledge. 

From  this  period  he  becomes  again  a  leader  and  an  example; 
again  he  multiplies  himself  in  the  work.  At  every  session  he  is 
found  on  special  and  standing  committees ;  such  for  instance  as 
the  committee  on  correspondence;  serving  also,  from  1838,  as 
chairman  of  the  Board  of  Managers  of  the  hall,  until  he  declined 
the  position  in  1844.  On  the  18th  day  of  January,  1841,  he  was 
at  length  duly  installed  Grand  Master  of  Maryland  On  the  16th 
day  of  May,  1845,  Maryland,  following  but  slowly  the  lead  of 
Pennsylvania,  opened  a  degree  lodge.  Marley  was  the  first 
Degree  Master,  and  gave  the  enterprise  an  impetus  which  it  has 
never  lost.  He  was  also  at  work  in  his  encampment,  filling  all 
its  places  of  trust  and  honor,  until  we  find  him,  on  the  14th  of 
January,  1839,  in  the  chair  of  the  Grand  Patriarch.  In  1844  he 
aided  in  resuscitating  Mechanics  Lodge,  No.  15,  now  the  most 
popular  lodge  in  the  State.  He  became  at  once  its  Treasurer, 
and  kept  the  place  until  his  death  ;  he  was  also  the  Treasurer  of 
his  encampment  for  the  last  fifteen  or  sixteen  years  of  his  life. 

But  in  another  and  higher  sphere  he  was  known  over  the 
whole  country.  He  sat  in  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States 
for  thirty-three  sessions  in  all,  having  been  absent  but  ten  out  of 
forty-three  consecutive  sessions  of  that  body.  His  record  there 
is  honorable  to  all  concerned.  He  was  by  nature  conservative, 
and  no  man  had  a  sounder  judgment.  He  was  a  good  legislator, 
and  his  votes  and  reports  challenge  investigation.  As  the  system 
grew  before  him,  he  saw  and  loved  it  as  one  who  had  helped  it 
gradually  to  unfold  and  crystallize  into  its  present  form.  He  was 
not  such  a  lover  of  the  ancient  usages  as  to  oppose  improvements ; 
but  to  the  contrary,  moved  on  steadily,  cheerfully  supporting  the 
new  men  and  measures  of  the  later  days.  Still  he  was  always 
conservative ;  but  as  fresh  features  were  developed,  he  embraced 
them  with  firm  persistency.  The  journal  is  his  best  record,  and  well 
attests  his  judgment  and  capacity.  He  was  not  the  proposer  of 
innovations,  and  no  temptation  could  induce  him  to  depart  from 
uniformity  to  serve  a  local  purpose  or  a  private  end.  His  motives 
were  public,  and  his  influence  for  the  whole  Order,  and  not  for 
Maryland  alone.  Hence  we  have  from  him  no  motions  for 
change,  no  anxiety  for  experiments.  He  carefully  "  tried  all 


RICHARD    MARLEY.  167 

things,  and  held  fast  that  which  was  good."  One  triumph  of  his 
early  judgment  came  to  him  in  1843.  At  that  session  of  the  G. 
Lodge  of  the  United  States  the  following  was  adopted : 
"  Resolved,  That  the  committee  on  the  state  of  the  Order  be 
directed  to  report,  at  this  session,  a  general  law  defining  the  gen- 
eral qualifications  for  membership  of  State  Grand  Lodges."  The 
committee  reported,  by  Eep.  Moore,  the  following  by-law: 
"  State  Grand  Lodges  are  prohibited  from  conferring  the  Grand 
Lodge  degree  for  a  pecuniary  consideration  with  a  view  to 
increasing  their  revenue,  or  for  any  other  consideration,  except 
the  regular  performance  of  the  duties  of  the  Noble  Grand's  chair ; 
the  said  degree  having  been  designed  as  a  reward  for  faithful 
service  in  the  subordinate  lodges,  and  cannot  legitimately  be 
reached  by  any  other  means." 

This  was  instantly  adopted,  and  a  hiotion  made  to  reconsider 
by  Marley's  colleague,  Rep.  Sanderson,  was  at  once  voted  down. 
The  action  was  indirect  in  its  terms,  but  decisive  in  its  effects. 
It  was  the  death-knell  of  the  appearance  of  the  fifth  degree  in  a 
Grand  Lodge.  To  effectuate  the  innovation,  the  degree  of  P. 
Grand  had  been  conferred  upon  Scarlet  Degree  members.  A  fee 
was  charged  for  it,  and  thus  the  honors  of  the  station  were  bar- 
tered away  for  a  small  revenue  to  the  treasury.  Marley  had 
borne  with  it  without  a  murmur,  after  his  return,  for  the  space  of 
ten  years.  He  entered  no  further  protest,  but  sat  in  the  mixed' 
crowd  where  his  Grand  Lodge  had  placed  him.  He  knew  that 
the  Grand  Lodge  degree  had  been  devised  for  P.  Grands  alone ; 
that  it  was  a  reward  for  faithful  service ;  that  it  was  one  of  the 
first  American  improvements,  and  that  to  change  the  mode  of  its 
acquisition  was  a  mockery ;  but  he  bowed  before  the  will  of  the 
majority,  and  did  not  even  complain  to  the  supreme  tribunal. 
Maryland  was  not  alone  in  trying  this  rash  experiment ;  the 
District  of  Columbia  had  done  the  same  thing,  and  there 
was  but  little  hope  of  a  reformation.  But  no  witness  of  the 
grave  and  silent  representative  giving  his  quiet  vote,  could  sus- 
pect the  secret  throb  that  attested  this  vindication  of  his  judg- 
ment by  the  wisdom  of  the  Order. 

No  doubt  the  form  of  the  by-law  was  dictated  by  Rep. 
Moore,  in  such  a  shape  as  to  give  as  little  pain  as  possible  to  his 
constituency  in  the  District  of  Columbia.  But  it  was  effectual ; 
at  once  the  Scarlet  Degree  members  were  excluded,  and  the  local 


168  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

senates  of  the  Order  were  placed  on  their  true  ground  as  the 
guardians  and  legislators  of  the  institution.  One  may  judge  of 
Marley's  amazement  had  he  lived  until  the  session  of  1875,  and 
listened  to  the  discussion  for  admitting  Scarlet  Degree  members 
to  Grand  Lodges  during  the  exemplification  of  the  secret  work. 
He  would  have  heard  the  old  argument  of  1831  for  making  the 
Grand  Lodge  more  democratic,  and  wondered  at  the  reappear- 
ance of  the  ghost  of  forty-four  years  ago.  How  would  he 
have  been  startled  by  the  following,  from  the  jurisdiction  whose 
representative  brought  on  the  discussion :  "  Resolved,  That  the 
Legislative  Committee  be  requested  to  consider  the  propriety  of 
admitting  fifth  degree  members  in  good  standing,  to  witness  the 
proceedings  in  State  Grand  Lodges,  and  to  report  what  legisla- 
tion, if  any,  is  necessary  in  the  premises."  This  wras  brought  in 
at  the  instance  of  a  State *Grand  Lodge  whose  record  is  above 
all  praise,  but  whose  experience  does  not  reach  back  to  the  begin- 
ning. It  will  be  seen  in  this  history  that  such  things  are  not 
new  or  untried,  and  that  all  the  usages,  traditions  and  work  are 
to  the  contrary.  As  faithful  historians  we  relate  the  facts,  but 
on  the  subject  of  the  proposed  revolution  we  have  nothing  to 
say  in  this  place. 

THE    VENERABLE    WARDEN. 

The  most  noteworthy  part  of  Marley's  record  is  not  to  be 
found  in  the  supreme  body.  At  home  he  was  a  model  working 
Odd  Fellow,  such  as  can  seldom  be  found.  He  was,  above  all, 
"  the  Past  Grand  Master  and  Past  Grand  Patriarch  of  Mary- 
land." His  home  was  in  the  chosen  family  of  his  brethren,  and 
he  had  no  ambition  beyond  that  circle.  After  years  of  toil,  he 
had  at  length  obtained  a  competency.  For  very  many  years  lie 
occupied  a  humble  place  of  business  in  a  not  very  desirable 
locality.  Here  he  drew  a  large  custom  as  a  ladies'  shoemaker  : 
far  and  near  they  sought  him  out  and  gave  him  their  patronage. 
No  mechanic  had  a  better  reputation  ;  his  two-story  house  was  a 
very  hive  of  industry.  Above  were  his  humble  domestic  arrange- 
ments, and  below  the  workshop  and  salesroom.  Here  with 
apron  on  he  cut  and  fitted  and  sold,  assisted  by  his  excellent 
wife.  One  or  two  journeymen  were  busy  at  the  bench,  the 
counter  was  strewn  with  polished  skins,  and  carriages  at  the  door 
were  waiting  for  his  fair  customers.  To  newcomers  he  was  a 


RICHARD    MARLEY. 

grum  and  silent  man,  who  had  nothing  to  say ;  but  to  his  old 
customers  he  was  the  beau-ideal  of  his  trade.  His  dignity  easily 
unbent  itself,  and  his  fatherly  kindness  won  many  a  kindling 
smile.  To  all  he  was  a  man  of  solid  worth,  by  no  means 
ashamed  of  his  business,  but  always  alive  to  the  fact  that  he  was 
the  peer  of  any  one  as  a  man. 

His  walks  were  in  but  one  direction,  and  he  knew  no  place 
for  his  leisure  but  the  Hall  on  Gay  Street.  He  was  a  fixture 
there ;  on  all  nights,  save  Saturday,  he  was  a  constant  visitor. 
He  was  ready  for  all  kinds  of  work ;  special  and  standing 
committees,  boards  of  peculiar  work,  and  meetings  for  the  good 
of  the  Order.  But  the  moment  the  business  had  ended  he  left ; 
he  would  not  lounge  a  minute,  but  with  sturdy  step  and  solemn 
mien  took  his  departure.  But  these  were  intervals  between  the 
meetings  of  his  lodge  and  encampment,  which  meetings  were  his 
pride  and  glory.  He  had  no  children,  and  his  brethren  were 
everything  to  him.  For  nearly  half  a  century  he  never  absented 
himself  from  the  abodes  of  Odd  Fellowship  without  serious 
cause.  Indeed  we  may  state,  as  the  literal  fact,  that  he  attended 
both  his  lodge  and  encampment  constantly  for  forty  years.  He 
seemed  indeed  to  be  always  present ;  punctual  to  the  minute, 
he  assumed  his  regalia  and  took  his  place.  Quiet,  vigilant  and 
active,  he  was  concerned  in  all  that  followed.  Thus,  in  time, 
he  became  as  it  were  a  part  of  the  lodge ;  he  was  indeed  no 
longer  a  mere  member,  but  a  living  embodiment  of  Odd  Fellow- 
ship. Hundreds  of  young  members  found  him  there  on  their 
entrance,  and  after  years  of  absence  would  return  to  find  him  still 
at  his  post.  Such  devotion  naturally  moved  all  observers .;  as  he 
grew  in  their  affections,  his  tones  were  softened,  and  his  heart 
went  out  to  them  in  love.  At  length  his  presence  was  hailed  as 
that  of  an  honored  patriarch.  They  spoke  softly  of  him  as  of  a 
kind  superior  —  his  very  name  would  call  a  crowd  to  listen  —  on 
all  hands  they  clung  around  him,  and  caressed  him  with  the 
familiar  title  of  "  Pap  Marley ";  touching  indication  of  their 
affection. 

RARE    TRAITS    OF    CHARACTER. 

Several  incidents  will  best  illustrate  his  character.  At  one 
time  his  pocket  was  picked  of  several  hundred  dollars,  of  which 
seventy-five  dollars  belonged  to  the  lodge.  The  circumstances 


170  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

became  known,  and  the  brothers  promptly  offered  to  release  him 
from  the  payment  of  the  money.  The  old  Treasurer  was  much 
affronted,  and  was  difficult  to  pacify.  "What!"  he  exclaimed; 
"  offer  me  a  license  to  be  careless  of  the  lodge  money — never  was 
I  more  deeply  mortified.  Besides,"  said  he,  "  what  a  precedent ! 
do  you  wish  to  offer  such  an  inducement  to  defalcations  by  other 
treasurers  ?  "  The  subject  was  dropped,  but  he  was  never  quite 
satisfied  about  it ;  for  he  was  a  strict  construer  of  legal  duty, 
and  held  himself  and  others  to  a  literal  fulfilment  of  its  pro- 
Tisions.  He  was  a  type  of  those  who  live  by  rule  and  usage, 
and  cannot  be  satisfied  outside  of  the  wholesome  regulations  of 
law.  To  him  order,  authority  and  uniformity  wrere  indispensable. 
The  whole  man  bore  the  outward  stamp  of  a  rigid  conservative. 
Scrupulously  clean  and  neat  in  his  dress,  he  always  moved  with 
a  heavy,  measured  step.  His  broad  figure  was  surmounted  by  a 
massive  face,  intelligent  indeed,  but  fixed  in  a  firm  and  severe 
gravity,  which  wras  seldom  absent.  An  invisible  phylactery 
seemed  to  hang  around  him,  on  which  everywhere  was  written 
the  one  word  —  DUTY. 

Again  in  1865  he  was  inclined  to  retire  from  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  United  States,  and  expressed  his  expectation  of 
declining  a  re-election.  The  time  came  to  elect,  and  there  were 
two  candidates  in  the  field ;  to  this  list  Marley  was  added.  The 
old  man,  after  all,  wras  willing  to  hold  the  position,  and  was  in- 
duced to  allow  the  use  of  his  name.  The  contest  was  very  close, 
and  the  ancient  representative  was  beaten  by  one  vote.  His  near 
friends  were  very  sore  over  the  matter,  and  on  learning  the  con- 
dition of  affairs,  the  winning  candidate  offered  to  decline,  and  to 
permit  Marley  to  be  appointed  to  the  vacancy.  But  the  veteran 
had  resigned  himself  to  the  result,  and  no  offers  could  induce  him 
to  seek  to  change  it.  This  was  in  the  Grand  Encampment ;  the 
next  year  he  went  by  acclamation  from  the  Grand  Lodge.  Some 
feeling  continued  to  exist  over  his  defeat,  with  which  he  had  no 
sympathy.  In  April,  1869,  when  barely  able  to  move  about,  and 
suffering  from  a  mortal  disorder,  he  attended  his  Grand  Encamp- 
ment for  the  last  time.  There  were  three  candidates  for  Grand 
Representative  in  nomination,  and  he  remained  to  vote,  and  cast 
it  for  his  opponent  of  1865.  When,  panting  and  struggling  to 
descend  the  stairway  from  the  meeting,  he  was  kindly  censured 
for  ^nturing  to  leave  his  home — "Ah!"  said  Marley,  "how 


RICHAED   MARLEY.  171 

-could  I  stay  away  ?     I  came  to  vote  for ,  and  would  do  it  at 

the  risk  of  my  life  ;  he  must  not  be  defeated  ! "  The  envy,  the 
mortified  vanity  of  little  souls  found  no  place  in  his  manly  bosom. 
Trivial  as  this  may  seem,  it  was  indicative  of  a  rare  unselfishness, 
which  others  would  do  well  to  ponder  and  to  imitate,  if  they  can. 

DEATH  OF  A  GREAT  ODD  FELLOW. 

This  was  indeed  his  last  appearance  among  his  brethren  ;  but  a 
few  short  days  and  he  dropped  from  the  roll.  On  the  7th  day  of 
May,  1869,  he  closed  his  numerous  accounts  with  the  Order,  by 
leaving  the  world.  Yes,  he  had  left  the  scenes  of  active  life ;  and 
a  void  was  created,  never  to  be  filled.  The  old  oak,  so  vigorous  in 
its  decay,  had  given  no  certain  warning  of  its  fall.  A  dozen  vacan- 
cies, in  as  many  places,  were  like  gaping  wounds  in  the  work  of 
the  Order — others  might  fill  them — but  alas!  who  could  replace  the 
familiar  friend  and  the  ancient  and  well-tried  father  and  brother  ? 
^Never,  in  the  same  space,  was  loss  more  deeply  felt  and  regretted. 
The  Order  in  Baltimore  was  stirred  in  all  its  lodges  and  encamp- 
ments by  the  common  sorrow.  They  could  not  bear  that  strange 
hands  should  minister  in  the  sacred  rites  of  his  sepulture,  but 
offered  at  once  to  take  charge  of  the  interment. 

The  day  broke  upon  the  city  in  cloudless  beauty,  for  May 
had  set  its  seal  of  flowers  on  the  fields,  and  the  breath  of  summer 
was  warming  the  bosom  of  spring.  They  carried  him  from  his 
humble,  dwelling  to  the  hall  on  Gay  Street.  In  the  Grand  Hall, 
where  he  sat  so  often,  they  laid  him  gently  down.  The  walls 
were  lined  with  the  mute  effigies  of  the  illustrious  associates,  dead 
and  living,  under  whose  orders  he  had  marched  to  so  many  vic- 
tories. Banners  were  waving  over  him,  and  the  low  dirge  of 
music  lent  its  mournful  notes.  The  streets  were  filled  with  hur- 
rying crowds — the  stairways  were  occupied,  and  the  large  hall  was 
packed  with  a  living  mass  of  mourners.  In  the  breathless  silence 
of  that  hour  Grand  Secretary  Eidgely  could  not  be  silent ;  when 
the  minister  had  ceased,  he  rose,  under  an  influence  impossible  to 
control.  What  he  said,  or  how — it  matters  not.  Who  can  por- 
tray a  scene  of  tears  ?  Who,  the  unspeakable  regrets  in  the  utter- 
ances of  one,  himself  advanced  in  years,  who,  in  this  loss,  needed 
as  much  as  any,  comfort  and  sympathy  ?  But  he  was  there  again 
in  the  old  hall — not  much  graver  than  in  life — with  the  same 
-unyielding  firmness  in  his  features,  but  softened,  as  it  were,  by 


172  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

the  presence  of  his  weeping  friends.  In  the  old  hall,  for  the  last 
time !  They  have  all  adjourned,  and  as  to  you,  old  workman, 
you  may  go  in  peace  !  The  lights  are  out,  and  you  are  alone — 
but  not  alone,  for  your  works  surround  you !  Are  not  these  also 
angel  ministers  ? 

They  bore  him  forth  in  the  van  of  the  surging  throngs — the 
last  of  the  Old  Guard  of  Wildey— the  man  of  1823— the  model 
workman  of  half  a  century — and  laid  him  tenderly  to  rest.  But 
the  rugged  figure  of  the  stalwart  soldier  yet  lives  in  the  memorial 
of  Marley  Lodge,  No.  107 ;  and  his  name  on  the  muster-roll,  like 
that  of  Latour  D'Auvergne,  is  answered  toby  his  living  comrades, 
"Dead  on  the  field  of  honor." 

The  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland,  on  the  13th  day  of  May,  1869, 
unanimously  passed  the  following :  "  Resolved,  That  as  accurate 
a  portrait  of  the  deceased  be  obtained  as  may  be,  from  the  mate- 
rial within  reach,  to  be  placed  in  the  gallery  of  the  It.  "W.  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  United  States,  and  that  the  Grand  Officers  carry 
this  resolution  into  effect." 

A  fitting  place  indeed  for  the  brother  who  for  so  long  a  period 
was  the  Father  of  the  Senate  of  the  Order !  He  was  in  the  sev- 
enty-eighth year  of  his  age ;  had  been  an  Odd  Fellow  forty-six 
years,  and  had  entered  that  body  forty-three  years  before  his  final 
parting — and  he  died  a  Grand  Representative.  Brawny  work- 
man, untiring  watcher,  unfailing  toiler  for  two  generations !  the 
chosen  band  of  each  lodge  of  workmen  will  do  thee  honor,  and 
lodges  and  encampments  yet  to  come  will  nourish  by  thy  example 
a  race  of  true  Odd  Fellows,  whose  watchwords  will  be  WORK 
and  MARLEY. 


CHAPTER   IX. 

THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES. 

Here  the  architect 

Did  not  with  curious  skill  a  pile  erect 
Of  carved  marble,  touch  or  porphery, 
But  built  a  house  for  hospitality. 

— CABEW. 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  as  now  constituted, 
arose  out  of,  and  as  the  necessary  consequence  of,  the  plan  by 
which  all  authority  was,  in  the  year  1821,  vested  in  the  Past 
Grands  of  Washington  Lodge.  By  that  act  those  Past  Officers 
became  the  only  body  which  had  any  lawful  existence  in  the 
domain  of  American  Odd  Fellowship.  By  virtue  of  their  sover- 
eignty, they  granted  to  Washington  Lodge  a  charter  as  a  subor- 
dinate lodge.  These  Past  Officers  constituted  in  fact  a  supreme 
G.  Lodge,  having  no  intermediate  State  G.  Lodge  under  its 
jurisdiction,  and  acting  directly  upon  its  subordinates.  For 
convenience,  and  to  prevent  confusion,  it  acted  separately  with 
regard  to  its  subordinates  in  Maryland  as  a  quasi  State  G.  Lodge, 
and  extra-territorially  as  a  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  It, 
therefore,  took  the  double  title,  when  in  truth  it  was  only  entitled 
to  the  latter  appellation. 

In  1825,  this  supreme  G.  Lodge  might  well  have  established 
a,  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland,  and  by  that  action  have  delegated  its 
local  jurisdiction ;  but  as  the  double  authority  which  it  wielded 
had  been  conferred  by  a  subordinate  upon  the  P.  Grands  of 
Maryland,  it  seemed  reasonable,  if  not  logical,  that  they  should 
retain  their  local  status,  and  as  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland,  in 
separate  session,  confer  upon  themselves,  by  the  superior  name, 
the  supreme  functions  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States. 
When  all  these  divisions  had  been  made,  it  was  still  apparent 
that,  however  divided,  from  first  to  last,  all  power  existed  in  the 
Past  Officers  of  Maryland.  For  up  to  this  time  no  representative 
of  any  other  State  or  body  had  taken  his  seat  among  them.  The 
method  of  the  proceeding  was  less  the  matter  to  be  considered, 

(173) 


174:  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

than  the  completion  of  a  system  which  should,  by  proper  delega- 
tions of  authority,  divide  the  functions  to  be  administered,  and 
produce  an  orderly  working  out  of  the  objects  of  the  Order. 
Thus  Washington  Lodge  resigns  its  charter,  and  is  no  longer  a 
lodge,  but  becomes  one  under  a  charter  from  a  new  body;  that 
new  body,  by  its  own  act,  also  ceases  to  exist  by  the  resignation 
of  the  same  charter,  and  takes  life  again  by  a  warrant  from 
another  new  body,  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  The 
logic  which  led  to  these  results  was  based  iipon  sound  principles, 
and  gave  assurance  of  a  breadth  of  judgment  and  diplomacy 
which  but  one  man  of  the  number  was  known  to  possess.  "We 
cannot  determine  who  is  the  more  worthy  of  our  gratitude,  G. 
Sec.  Entwisle,  the  deviser  of  the  plan,  or  those  who  with  such 
docility  and  zeal  adopted  it.  But  who  can  deny  admiration  to  a 
movement  whose  identity  is  so  logically  kept  up,  that  what  follows 
seems  only  to  be  the  natural  result  of  that  which  had  preceded  ? 

The  unity  of  this  family  arrangement  was  fostered  by  circum- 
stances tending  in  every  way  to  fuse  the  membership  together. 
The  members  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  were  the  members  of 
the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.,  and  were  also  the  leading  members  of  the 
four  subordinate  lodges ;  all  being  in  Baltimore  City.  All 
these  lodges  met  in  the  same  room,  on  such  evenings  as 
suited  the  general  convenience.  In  point  of  space  they  were  all 
together,  and  the  subordinate  lodge  had  only  to  adjourn  and  open 
a  G.  Lodge  of  Md.,  and  the  last  in  the  same  manner  could  open 
as  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  This  paucity  of  numbers,  and  the 
three-fold  capacity  of  the  membership,  did  not  in  any  manner 
affect  the  dignity  of  the  proceeding ;  lodge  rank  and  distinction 
were  eagerly  sought  for  and  duly  honored,  and  every  department 
took  place  in  the  order  of  precedence  without  a  jar,  and  with  a 
gravity  better  becoming  the  later  stages  of  their  history  than  the 
insignificance  of  their  early  surroundings.  It  was  then,  with  a 
solemnity  we  can  little  imagine,  that  the  P.  Grands  of  Md.,  having 
extended  to  the  P.  Grands  of  Massachusetts,  New  York  and  Penn- 
sylvania, and  all  others  yet  to  have  an  existence  in  the  country,  the 
benefits  of  the  free  gift  of  their  G.  Lodge,  met  on  the  22d  of  Feb- 
ruary, 1825,  in  the  first  session  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United 
States. 

Its  constitution  had  been  already  adopted,  as  we  have  seen, 
on  the  15th  of  January,  1825.  The  first  article  provided  that, 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  175 

"  The  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  shall  be  composed  of  a  G.  M.,  a  D. 
G.  M.,  a  G.  Sec.,  a  G.  G.,  and  a  Rep.  or  Proxy  of  each  Grand 
Lodge  in  the  United  States  acting  under  a  legal  charter."  The 
thirteenth  article  provided  that  the  term  of  the  G.  M.  should  be 
four  years,  and  to  be  eligible  for  a  succeeding  term  of  three  years, 
but  then  to  be  ineligible  for  re-election  until  after  a  full  term  of 
four  years,  unless  there  was  no  candidate  qualified  for  the  office, 
in  which  case  he  wras  to  serve  until  a  qualified  successor  was 
chosen.  To  qualify  him  for  the  office,  he  was  required  to  be  a 
P.  G.  M.  of  a  State  G.  Lodge.  The  D.  G.  M.  was  to  be  appointed 
by  the  G.  M.  for  four  years,  and  was  re-eligible  without  limit ; 
service  for  a  full  term  gave  him  the  past  honors  of  his  office  > 
yet  notwithstanding  this  provision,  Bro.  Welch  was  elected  with 
the  other  officers.  The  G.  Sec.  was  to  be  elected  for  a  term  of 
four  years,  was  re-eligible,  and  was  entitled  to  the  honors  after 
serving  a  full  term.  The  G.  G.'s  term  was  also  four  years,  and 
full  service  was  necessary  to  acquire  the  past  official  honors  of 
his  office ;  his  appointment  was  made  by  the  G.  M.  This 
instrument  was  somewhat  vague  in  its  terms,  but  was  an  improve- 
ment upon  those  previously  adopted. 

One  vital  provision  gave  character  to  the  whole  arrangement ; 
the  second  paragraph  of  Art.  15  reads  thus :  "  The  G.  M.,  D.  G. 
M.,  G.  S.,  and  G.  G.,  as  officers,  shall  not  vote  on  any  occasion 
whatever,  as  the  same  solely  devolves  on  the  representatives  or 
their  proxies ;  but  when  the  votes  are  equal,  the  G.  M.  shall  give 
the  casting  vote."  This  will  show  by  what  vote  the  proceedings 
in  the  body  were  determined,  and  explain  the  relative  acts  of  the 
members  of  the  G.  Lodge  when  in  session  ;  but  it  also  declares  the 
true  principle,  that  power  to  legislate  exists  in  the  subordinate 
G.  bodies  alone,  to  be  exercised  by  their  duly  elected  agents. 
The  constitution  is  set  forth  in  the  Journal,  pages  TO,  71,  and 
with  this  chart  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  was  set  adrift  upon  its 
perilous  voyage.  The  first  meeting  assembled  at  Wildey's,  at  the 
corner  of  Gay  and  Front  Streets,  on  the  22d  of  February,  1825,  the 
day  fixed  by  the  constitution.  But  two  of  the  officers  elected  were 
present,  with  the  Eep.  of  Maryland,  and  three  P.  G.'s  as  visitors ; 
when  it  was  resolved  to  call  upon  the  distant  G.  Lodges  to  appoint 
proxies,  and  that  the  installation  of  the  officers  be  deferred  to  the 
30th  day  of  March  ensuing,  to  which  day  they  adjourned.  It 
may  here  be  stated  that  every  meeting  of  the  supreme  body  after- 


176  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

wards  held  in  Baltimore,  up  to  the  session  of  the  5th  of  Septem- 
ber, 1831,  met  at  Wildey's;  the  minutes  which  read  "convened 
this  day  at  Odd  Fellows'  Hall,  city  of  Baltimore,"  until  the 
period  mentioned,  having  reference  only  to  Wildey's,  and  not  to 
the  present  site. 

Pursuant  to  adjournment,  the  G.  Lodge  convened  on  March 
30th,  1825;  present,  Thomas  Wildey,  John  Welch,  William  Wil- 
liams, Thomas  Mitchell,  Charles  Common,  Maurice  Fennell, 
Thomas  Scotchburn  and  John  Boyd,  members ;  and  P.  G.'s  Nel- 
son, Harris,  Freeburger,  Gill  and  Colt,  visitors,  all  of  Maryland. 
Rep.  Common  presided,  and  appointed  temporary  officers,  when 
the  brothers  who  had  been  elected  at  the  preliminary  meeting  in 
January  were  presented  and  installed  into  their  respective  offices ; 
this  also  included  the  G.  Guardian,  who  had  been  selected  by  the 
G.  M.  The  officers  installed  were  Thomas  Wildey,  G.  M. ;  John 
Welch,  D.  G.  M. ;  William  Williams,  G.  Sec. ;  and  Thos'.  Mitchell, 
G.  G.  The  following  Reps,  were  upon  the  floor :  Charles  Com- 
mon, Rep.  of  Maryland,  and  proxies  Maurice  Fennell,  of  Mas- 
sachusetts, Thomas  Scotchburn,  of  New  York,  and  John  Boyd, 
of  Pennsylvania  ;  four  votes  in  all. 

The  G.  M.,  on  taking  the  chair,  seemed  fully  aware  of  the 
great  responsibility  which  the  little  band  of  brethren  had  assumed. 
He  looked  around  him  and  saw  but  one  of  the  originators  of  the 
enterprise — Welch.  The  rest  were  new  men,  and  as  yet  untried ; 
but  to  his  ardent  zeal  this  was  only  a  fresh  stimulus  to  exer- 
tion. His  hopes,  always  high,  rose  with  the  occasion.  He  ad- 
dressed them  in  words  full  of  confidence  and  assurance  of  success. 
"  The  G.  Sire  was  arrayed  in  entirely  new  robes,"  says  the  pri- 
vate journal  of  Wildey,  "  and  the  officers  and  representatives 
were  on  this  occasion  attired  in  new  sashes."  The  scene  must 
have  been  full  of  interest  to  all  who  were  present,  as  it  is  in 
the  retrospect,  a  glorious  birthday  of  power  and  renown  to  the 
principles  represented  by  those  humble  men.  It  was  the  con- 
summation of  a  federal  union  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd 
Fellows  on  the  American  continent.  The  haughty  courage  of 
their  chief,  his  force  and  his  fervor,  took  the  place  of  all  the  com- 
mon incentives  of  the  human  mind.  The  poor  accommodations 
were,  in  their  eyes,  a  hall ;  the  insignia  and  decorations,  emblems 
of  a  real  authority ;  their  functions  supremely  important  to  con- 
temporaries and  to  posterity;  and  some  of  them  might  even  then 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE   UNITED    STATES.  177 

Lave  believed,  with  the  founder,  that  by  succession  they  would 
gather  under  their  segis  a  very  empire  of  willing  subjects. 

The  business  of  the  session  began  with  the  reading  and 
approval  of  the  proceedings  of  the  preliminary  and  informal 
meetings,  and  also  of  those  of  the  several  State  Grand 
Lodges  which  had  authorized  the  organization.  The  order  passed 
at .  the  preliminary  meeting  for  the  printing  of  the  third  and 
fourth  degrees  and  the  P.  G.'s  charge,  was  considered  and  ap- 
proved. The  constitution  having  been  submitted  to  the  State 
jurisdictions  for  approval,  was  returned  approved,  vrith  some  im- 
portant modifications.  Pennsylvania  had  suggested  that  the  5th 
Article,  making  Baltimore  the  permanent  seat  of  the  supreme 
body,  be  amended,  by  striking  out  the  word  "permanent"  and 
inserting  "present."  New  York  wished  the  same  amendment, 
and  further  objected  to  sec.  2  of  Article  12,  which  authorized  the 
G.  Master  to  appoint  his  Deputy  from  Maryland. 

A  question  then  arose  of  a  delicate  nature,  which  was  difficult 
of  solution,  by  reason  of  the  absence  of  a  personal  representative 
from  Pennsylvania.  A  petition  from  Washington  Lodge,  No.  2, 
and  Wayne  Lodge,  No.  3,  of  that  State,  was  read,  in  relation  to 
a  certain  James  Day,  of  Philadelphia,  who,  in  the  estimation  of 
that  lodge,  and  of  the  D.  G.  M.  of  that  State,  had  been  "  unjustly 
dealt  with."  This  is  very  vague,  and  is  only  made  clear  by  refer- 
ence to  the  previous  proceedings  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania. 
It  seems  that  Day  entered  that  Grand  Lodge  without  proper 
qualifications,  and  in  fact  had  never  been  initiated.  He  attended 
the  meetings,  served  on  a  committee,  ran  for  an  office,  and  was 
finally  appointed  G.  G. ;  one  week  afterwards  the  fraud  was  dis- 
covered, and  he  was  suspended  until  the  sitting  of  the  G, 
Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.  The  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and 
of  the  IT.  S.,  on  the  22d  of  November,  1824,  having  heard 
the  case,  recommended  "that  the  said  Mr.  Day  be  excluded 
from  entering  any  lodge  of  the  I.  O.  F.  throughout  the 
globe."  This  was  concurred  in,  and  Mr.  Day  was  informed 
of  his  expulsion.  The  petition  now  offered  was  to  obtain  a 
review  and  reversal  of  the  former  action.  But  the  body  was 
better  educated  in  its  duties,  and  disposed  of  the  matter  by  refus- 
ing to  interfere  with  the  powers  delegated  to  the  subordinate 
G.  Lodges.  It  was  therefore  resolved,  first,  that  it  had  no 
jurisdiction ;  secondly,  that  the  G.  Lodges  alone  had  the  right 
12 


178  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

to  bring  such  matters  before  the  body;  thirdly,  that  the  peti- 
tioners be  referred  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania ;  fourthly, 
that  copies  of  the  resolutions  be  furnished  to  that  G.  Lodge  and 
the  petitioners.  It  is  only  necessary  to  say  that  Day  was  restored 
by  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  upon  condition  "  that  he  be 
instructed  and  pay  for  the  degrees  received."  He  was  then  duly 
initiated.  This  first  exercise  of  judicial  power  is  of  moment,  a& 
indicating  more  correct  views  of  the  relative  parts  of  the  system, 
The  new  body,  sensible  of  the  great  trust  which  it  was  adminis- 
tering, took  higher  ground  than  before,  in  asserting  the  just  pre- 
rogatives of  the  State  G.  Lodges  which  it  had  created. 

At  this  session  the  fact  was  disclosed  that  there  was  a  color 
on  the  charters  of  the  State  G.  Lodges  for  a  degree  which  they 
had  not  received.  The  G.  Lodges  were  ordered  to  be  notified  of 
the  fact,  and  that  the  degree  would  be  forwarded  as  soon  as  possible ;, 
also  that  the  money  to  be  paid  for  the  degree  (the  fifth)  should  be 
used  to  pay  the  expenses  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  IT.  S.  and  of  the 
G.  Representatives.  In  the  previous  classification,  the  first, 
second  and  third  degrees  were  White,  Blue  and  Scarlet ;  the 
Covenant  and  Remembrance  were  at  first  designated  as  "  inter- 
mediate degrees";  that  is  to  say,  the  Covenant  or  Pink  was 
placed  after  the  first,  and  the  Remembrance  or  Green  after  the 
second  degree,  with  no  appropriate  numbers  attached  :  so  that 
the  Golden  Rule  was  known  as  the  fourth,  and  the  Purple  or 
Royal  Purple  the  fifth.  The  degrees,  seven  in  all,  with  the  addi- 
tion of  another  color,  were  at  this  meeting  marshalled  in  the 
following  order :  White,  Pink,  Blue,.  Green,  Scarlet,  Gold  and 
Purple.  It  had  been  customary  to  display  the  colors  in  their 
order  on  official  papers,  such  as  charters,  and  these  colors,  in- 
cluding that  of  "  Purple,"  are  to  be  found  on  the  original  charter 
granted  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  New  York  in  1823 ;  but  this  is  error,, 
as  that  color  was  not  adopted  before  the  year  1825.  The  Royal 
Purple  degree  was  selected  as  a  sublime  degree,  only  to  be  con- 
ferred by  State  G.  Lodges,  and  never  upon  any  who  had  not 
become  P.  Grands. 

The  personal  influence  of  the  G.  M.  was  acknowledged  by  a 
vote  that  his  address  should  be  forwarded  to  the  G.  Lodges,  with 
a  notice  of  his  intention  soon  to  appear  in  person  among  them. 
The  connection  with  the  mother  country  was  evidenced  by  a 
communication  from  the  Order  in  England,  and  an  answer  an- 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  179 

nouncing  the  opening  of  the  new  programme  was  prepared  and 
duly  transmitted.  Before  the  adjournment,  what  purported 
to  be  a  statement  or  annual  report  ending  February,  1825, 
from  the  State  G.  Lodges,  was  presented.  The  number  of 
G.  Lodges  w^as  4,  of  subordinates  9,  but  no  return  of  member- 
ship, revenue  or  disbursement  appeared.  Special  G.  Committee 
meetings  were  held  on  April  20th  and  September  25th,  1825 ;  at 
the  former  a  correspondence  was  authorized  with  certain  persons 
in  New  Orleans,  to  give  them  instructions  as  to  how  they  might 
open  a  lodge  in  that  city ;  and  at  the  latter,  the  G.  Master  gave 
a  verbal  report  of  his  visit  to  Massachusetts,  New  York  and 
Pennsylvania ;  his  report  was  highly  favorable.  He  also  stated 
that  New  York  and  Pennsylvania  insisted  on  the  amendment 
striking  out  "  permanent,"  and  making  Baltimore  the  "  present " 
place  of  the  sessions  of  the  body ;  Massachusetts  declined  to  ex- 
press its  opinion.  The  amendment  was  then,  on  the  call  of  the 
ayes  and  noes,  unanimously  adopted,  and  the  constitution  per- 
fected, by  changing  the  time  of  meeting,  from  the  22d  of  Febru- 
ary to  the  1st  of  May ;  no  further  changes  were  made  for  several 
years. 

The  unanimity  displayed  in  the  vote  for  the  permanent  seat 
of  the  G.  Lodge  was  not  shared  by  the  Odd  Fellows  of  Maryland. 
Rep.  Common  wras  supposed  to  vote  for  that  State,  and  in  fact 
did  so,  but  his  constituents  were  far  from  satisfied.  The  proxy 
representatives  of  the  other  three  States  were  also  P.  Grands  of 
Md.,  and  had  to  run  the  gauntlet  of  the  most  violent  abuse  for 
having,  as  was  asserted,  betrayed  their  jurisdiction.  Until  Wil- 
dey  brought  the  new  and  independent  charter,  during  the  next 
year,  from  England,  everything  depended  on  the  charter  origi- 
nally granted  to  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1.  That  was  the  only 
warrant  of  authority,  and  was  held  upon  a  condition  which  the 
G.  Lodge  had  no  right  to  disregard.  It  was  impossible,  in  strict 
justice,  to  ignore  the  consideration  expressed  in  the  grant,  that 
Baltimore  should  be  the  permanent  seat  of  the  new  body.  But 
the  P.  Grands  of  Maryland,  in  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.,  were 
bent  upon  making  it  a  national  council,  at  the  sacrifice  of  pride 
and  in  defiance  of  every  obstacle.  They  risked  their  popularity 
at  home  to  secure  foreign  alliances,  and  never  ceased  to  conciliate 
the  distant  G.  Lodges  until  they  had  won  their  approbation.  The 
charter  of  1826  had  no  such  condition  annexed  ;  but  the  G.  Lodge, 


180  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

though  not  confined  to  Baltimore,  naturally  gravitated  to  the 
G.  M.  and  his  residence ;  since  his  time,  wherever  it  may  wander, 
the  same  attraction  for  the  G.  Secretary's  office  draws  it  to  Balti- 
more. But  in  early  days,  the  place  of  meeting  was  often  cause 
of  contention  where  none  was  necessary.  Pennsylvania  was,  in 
1827,  very  eager  to  become  the  seat  of  government.  In  May  of 
that  year,  G.  S.  Wildey  addressed  G.  M.  Small,  of  that  State,  as 
follows :  "  So  much  of  your  communication  as  has  a  reference  to 
moving  the  seat  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  has  met  my  most- 
cordial  approbation ;  and  should  I  be  spared  so  long,  shall  advo- 
cate its  permanent  removal  to  Pennsylvania,  at  the  next  annual 
communication.  I  do  not  conceive  that  the  resources  would  jus- 
tify me  in  recommending  it  to  be  a  movable  lodge.  I  therefore 
desire  to  see  it  permanently  located  in  Pennsylvania;  and  when 
it  shall  have  been  removed  there,  I  hope  you  will  not  feel  the 
burden  as  heavily  as  Maryland  has.  The  time  and  money  I  have 
sacrificed  for  its  welfare  are  more  than  you  would  be  willing  to 
believe.  I  rather  suspect  that  Pennsylvania,  or  any  other  State, 
would  soon  tire  of  its  location  among  them ;  if  so,  they  will  always 
find  Maryland  at  her  post."  But  to  return  to  the  proceedings  of 
the  session. 

Information  having  been  received  of  the  want  of  harmony 
among  the  brotherhood  in  New  York,  a  correspondence  with  that 
jurisdiction  was  ordered.  P.  G.  McCormick,  who  had  just 
returned  from  England,  was  present  with  a  letter  from  the  Man- 
chester Unity,  and  several  copies  of  the  English  Odd  Fellows' 
Magazine.  He  also  announced  that  he  had  received  a  degree  at 
Manchester,  which  he  was  authorized  to  confer  on  G.  M.  Wildey 
and  D.  G.  M.  Welch ;  which  duty  he  had  performed.  This  was 
the  Patriarchal  Degree,  which  was  conferred  only  upon  P.  G.'s, 
and  in  the  body  of  a  G.  Lodge,  as  was  the  Royal  Purple  Degree. 
The  charge  fixed  for  the  degree  was  one  dollar.  This  degree 
completed  the  superior  degrees  of  the  Order,  and  though  last  in 
order  of  time,  was  put  first  in  the  Encampment  work.  It  was 
conferred  on  those  present,  namely,  Rep.  Common,  Proxies  Fen- 
nell,  Scotchburn  and  Boyd,  G.  Sec'y  Williams,  and  P.  G.'s  John 
Roach  and  Charles  Brice. 

The  second  annual  session,  which  by  the  constitution  was 
fixed  for  the  1st  of  May,  convened  on  the  25th  of  April,  1826  ; 
present,  Charles  Common,  Rep.  of  Maryland  ;  Proxies  Charles 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  181 

Brice,  of  Massachusetts,  and  John  Boyd,  of  Pennsylvania,  and 
four  visitors,  P.  G.'s  Marley,  Eoach,  Gill  and  Santmyer.  P.  G. 
Scotchburn,  of  New  York,  being  absent,  was  lined  live  dollars, 
and  P.  G.  Marley,  a  visitor,  was  appointed  to  act  for  him ;  and 
the  absent  G.  G.  was  also  fined  five  dollars,  and  John  Roach, 
also  one  of  the  visitors,  appointed  to  fill  his  place  pro  tern.  The 
roll  contains  for  the  first  time  those  titles  which  are  now  familiar : 
Thomas  Wildey,  M.  W.  GRAND  SIRE,  and  John  Welch,  R.  W. 
DEP.  GRAND  SIRE.  No  reason  was  assigned  for  this  change  of 
official  designations ;  the  constitution  gave  no  such  style,  and 
therefore  they  must  have  been  assumed  and  worn  by  common 
consent.  It  is  conjectured  that  the  alteration  was  made  at  an 
unrecorded  special  meeting ;  but  if  so,  it  must  have  been  done  by 
a  simple  resolution.  This  view  is  confirmed  by  the  fact  that 
when  the  amended  constitution  of  1829  was  adopted,  the  new 
title  was  made  one  of  its  material  parts. 

At  this  point  it  was  announced  that  G.  M.  Small  and  P.  D. 
G.  M.  Richardson,  of  Pennsylvania,  were  in  waiting,  desiring  to 
visit  the  G.  Lodge.  A  committee  to  examine  and  report  upon 
the  qualifications  of  the  visitors,  reported  that  they  were  qualified. 
They  were  admitted  and  received  with  the  honors  of  the  Order. 
G.  M.  Small  then  arose  and  presented  his  credentials  as  Rep. 
elect  from  Pennsylvania,  which  being  found  correct,  he  took  his 
seat  as  the  Rep.  from  that  jurisdiction,  being  the  first  elected 
representative  beyond  Maryland  who  took  part  in  the  delibera- 
tions of  the  body. 

We  resume  the  consideration  of  the  proceedings  of  the  second 
annual  session.  The  constitution  was  read  by  the  G.  Sire.  It 
was  immediately  amended  without  regard  to  Article  3  of  its  pro- 
visions ;  the  six  months'  notice  was  not  given,  it  was  not  sent  to 
the  'State  G.  Lodges,  and  did  not  pass  on  a  call  of  the  ayes  and 
noes,  which  was  the  only  test  of  a  vote  upon  the  constitution. 
The  amendments  adopted  were  as  follows : 

"  Section  4.  ARTICLE  XXII. — All  lodges  acting  under  the 
G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.,  when  having  five  P.  Grands,  are  at  liberty 
to  petition  the  G.  Lodge  for  a  G.  Charter,  with  the  different 
degrees  belonging  to  a  G.  Lodge,  so  as  to  enable  them  to  have  a 
State  G.  Lodge  for  the  government  of  their  State. 

"  ARTICLE  XIII.— That  a  State  G.  Charter,  together  with  the 
Golden  Rule  and  Royal  Purple  or  fifth  degree,  be  charged  at 


182  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

twenty  dollars,  to  be  paid  for  on  delivery,  and  all  necessary 
expenses  incurred  shall  be  paid  for  by  those  who  shall  apply  for 
the  same." 

The  price  of  the  Patriarchal  degree  was  changed  from  one 
dollar  to  two  dollars  and  fifty  cents,  and  that  of  a  charter  and 
the  degrees  for  a  subordinate  lodge  fixed  at  thirty  dollars.  Rep. 
Small  at  this  point  asked  leave  of  absence,  and  with  his  com- 
panion departed ;  but  before  leaving,  they  spoke  in  flattering 
terms  of  the  state  of  the  Order,  and  of  the  gracious  manner  of 
their  reception.  The  Rep.  having  retired,  his  proxy,  P.  G.  Boyd, 
resumed  his  seat  in  the  body.  The  pleasure  of  this  interview 
was  mutual,  and  the  grateful  G.  Lodge  immediately  passed  a 
vote  of  thanks  to  Rep.  Small,  "  for  his  visit  and  his  attention  to 
the  duties  of  his  office ";  rather  a  singular  idea  indeed,  but 
showing  the  anxiety  of  the  P.  Grands  of  Md.  to  have  the  counsel 
and  presence  of  the  distant  representatives.  Communications 
were  read  from  Pennsylvania  and  New  York;  in  the  former 
there  had  been  an  accession  of  one,  and  in  the  latter  of  two 
subordinates.  This  made  the  whole  number  of  subordinates 
in  the  United  States  reach  12.  Two  special  committee  meetings 
were  held  in  the  recess  before  the  session  of  1827,  the  first  on 
October  the  3d.  At  this  meeting  the  G.  S.  submitted  the  fol- 
lowing report : 

Officers  and  Representatives : 

The  Grand  Sire  respectfully  reports :  That  after  a  passage 
of  twenty-one  days,  he  arrived  at  Liverpool,  and  visited  the  lodges ; 
but  being  desirous  of  reaching  Manchester,  he  took  leave  of  the 
brethren  there,  and  proceeded  on  his  journey.  On  arriving  at 
Manchester,  he  was  received  with  open  arms  by  a  few  of  the 
brothers.  The  Corresponding  Secretary  was  ordered  to  prepare 
notices  for  the  assembling  of  the  Order.  On  the  following  day, 
at  4  o'clock  P.  M.,  and  at  the  appointed  time,  he  met  about  six 
or  seven  hundred  of  the  brethren,  and  all  seemed  overjoyed  at  his 
arrival.  After  some  preliminary  business  had  been  gone  through 
with,  the  G.  Sire  delivered  an  address,  which  was  received  with 
approbation.  It  will  appear  in  the  next  number  of  the  English 
Magazine.  For  six  successive  nights  during  his  stay  among  them, 
he  frequently  visited  two  lodges  of  an  evening ;  a  conveyance  was 
in  attendance  to  take  him  from  place  to  place,  and  at.  all  of  the 
lodges  he  explained  to  them  the  plan  on  which  the  lodges  worked 
in  the  United  States.  Several  committee  meetings  were  held  for 
the  transaction  of  business  with  him,  during  his  stay  in  Manches- 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  183 

ter.  The  G.  Sire  attended  several  public  dinners,  at  which  much 
good  humor  prevailed,  and  the  health  of  the  G.  Masters  of  Mary- 
land, Massachusetts,  New  York  and  Pennsylvania,  with  their  offi- 
cers, were  severally  drank,  confirmed  by  the  honors  of  the  Order. 
Several  alterations  have  taken  place  in  the  work,  which  the  G. 
Sire  is  of  the  opinion  may  be  productive  of  service  to  the  Order. 
The  G.  Sire  presented  the  committee  of  the  Manchester  Unity 
with  the  Covenant  and  Remembrance  degrees,  which  were  ap- 
proved of  by  them,  and  were  left  for  their  adoption. 

Before  leaving  Manchester,  the  brethren  being  desirous  of 
bestowing  a  mark  of  respect  on  the  G.  Sire,  but  considering  the 
subject  of  a  delicate  nature,  they  resolved  that  the  same  should 
be  intimated  to  him  by  the  G.  Treasurer,  privately,  which  was 
accordingly  done,  by  suggesting  a  gold  medal  as  suitable.  The 
G.  Sire  replied  that  if  it  was  their  wish  to  present  him  with  a 
token  of  their  esteem,  he  would  prefer,  to  anything  else,  a  char- 
ter for  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  confirming  the  one 
granted  by  the  Duke  of  York  Lodge,  Preston.  To  this  sugges- 
tion they  instantly  promised  compliance,  and  on  his  return  from 
London  he  was  presented  with  a  charter,  splendidly  executed  on 
parchment,  through  the  hands  of  G.  M.  Thomas  Derbyshire,  in  a 
suitable  manner ;  when  the  Corresponding  Secretary  of  the  dis- 
trict accompanied  the  delivery  with  a  highly  complimentary  ad- 
dress. From  Manchester  the  Grand  Sire  proceeded  to  London, 
where  he  was  received  in  a  highly  gratifying  manner.  While 
visiting  the  lodges  there,  he  observed  an  emblem  representing 
the  foundation  stone  laid  by  our  forefather  Adam,  and  procured 
one,  which  he  now  presents  to  the  Grand  Lodge.  After  leaving 
London,  he  returned  to  Manchester,  and  visited  the  country 
lodges,  where  he  was  met  by  a  very  numerous  body  of  the  Order, 
who  congratulated  him  in  a  highly  gratifying  manner. 

This  record  supplies  one  of  the  most  gratifying  pages  of  the  his- 
tory both  of  Wildey  and  of  the  Order ;  honorable  to  him  for  his 
disinterestedness  and  devotion,  and  to  our  English  brethren  for  a 
rare  magnanimity  and  self-denying  fraternity,  of  which  there  have 
"been  few  examples.  The  causes  which  led  to  the  G.  Sire's  official 
visit  do  not  appear  upon  the  journal.  No  doubt  the  special  com- 
mittee was  called  to  receive  his  report,  as  they  do  not  seem  to 
have  expressed  surprise  when  he  offered  it.  But  there  is  no  pre- 
vious mention  of  such  an  undertaking.  We  think  that  the 
report  was  expected,  and  his  absence  known,  but  the  act  was 
induced  by  one  of  those  impulses  to  which  this  remarkable  man 
was  subject.  He  had  witnessed,  with  grief,  the  departure  of  the 
Order,  in  England,  from  the  ancient  work,  and  foresaw  the  blow 


184  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

which  would  sever  our  friendly  relations  unless  that  tendency  was- 
arrested.  But,  if  unable  to  turn  back  the  English  brotherhood 
to  the  original  landmarks,  he  felt  that  he  might,  by  timely  action, 
preserve  the  unity  of  the  Order  on  this  continent.  In  Septem- 
ber, 1825,  complaint  had  been  made  to  the  Manchester  Unity 
about  changes  in  the  work,  but  no  proposition  had  been  made 
looking  to  a  remedy. 

The  G.  Sire,  asking  for  no  credentials,  but  relying  upon  the 
character  which  he  had  already  established  in  both  countries  for 
devotion  to  the  cause,  was  suddenly  impelled  to  undertake  the 
solution  of  the  difficulty  upon  his  own  responsibility.  Hence  his 
voyage,  his  arrival  in  England,  his  reception  by  admiring  multi- 
tudes, his  magnetic  handling  of  the  subject,  which  gave  no  offence, 
and  last  of  all,  his  return,  with  the  segis  in  his  hand  with  which 
he  was  able  to  preserve  intact  and  forever  the  American 
Order.  The  first  public  notice  of  this  master-stroke  was  the  call 
of  the  special  committee  and  his  report ;  when  he  presented  to  his 
astonished  friends  the  free  gift — that  of  Wildey,  as  well  as  that 
of  the  Manchester  Unity — an  independent  charter — the  charter 
of  independence  of  American  Odd  Fellowship.  The  record  says: 

The  report  of  the  Grand  Sire  having  been  read,  011  motion,  the 
following  were  adopted : 

Resolved,  That  the  charter  presented  to  this  body  by  the 
Grand  Annual  Movable  Committee  connected  with  the  Manches- 
ter Unity,  dated  May  15th,  1826,  be,  and  the  same  is  hereby 
accepted. 

HesoLved,  That  the  thanks  of  this  Grand  Lodge  be  voted  to 
the  officers  and  brothers  of  the  Manchester  district,  for  the  hos- 
pitable manner  in  which  they  received  and  entertained  our 
worthy  G.  Sire,  during  his  late  visit  to  England. 

Resolved,  That  the  G.  Secretary  communicate  this  vote  of 
thanks,  and  the  same  be  entered  on  the  minutes. 

Resolved,  That  the  foregoing  be  forwarded  by  the  G.  Secre- 
tary to  the  State  Grand  Lodges. 

ENGLISH  CHARTER  OF  MAY  15TH,  1826. 
I.  O.  O.  F. 

This  Dispensation,  granted  by  consent  of  the  Grand  Master 
and  past  and  present  Officers  from  various  lodges  connected  with 
the  Manchester  Unity,  assembled  in  Grand  Committee. 

In  consideration  of  the  Charter  formerly  granted  by  the  Duke 
of  York  Lodge,  Preston,  to  certain  Officers  and  Brothers  of  the 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES. 


185 


Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  in  Baltimore,  in  the  United 
States  of  America,  We,  the  Undersigned,  respectively,  Officers  of 
the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  in  Great  Britain,  do  ratify,, 
grant  and  confirm  such  Charter ;  and  also  hereby  grant,  author- 
ize and  empower  the  Grand  Sire,  Deputy  Grand  Sire,  Represent- 
atives and  Proxies  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  of 
America,  to  conduct  the  business  of  Odd  Fellowship,  without  the 
interference  of  any  other  country,  so  long  as  the  same  is  admin- 
istered according  to  the  principles  and  purity  of  Odd  Fellowship. 
This  charter  being  granted  as  a  free  gift  from  the  Grand  Annual 
Movable  Committee,  in  Manchester,  assembled  on  the  15th  day 
of  May,  in  the  year  1826. 

In  witness  whereof,  we  have  hereunto  affixed  our  seals,  dis- 
played the  colors  of  our  Order,  and  subscribed  our  names  the  day 
and  year  above  written. 


WILLIAM  ARMITT,  G.  M. 
THOMAS  DERBYSHIRE,  D.  G.  M. 
MARK  WARDLE,  P.  G.  and  C.  S. 
BEAUMONT  HODGSON,  Trea. 
ROBERT  NAYLOR,  Pr.  G.  M. 
B.  A.  REDFERN,  Pr.  D.  G.  M. 
THOMAS  ARMITT,  P.  G.  M. 
JOHN  DUCKWORTH,  P.  Pr.  G.  M. 
E.  W.  SMITH,  Pr.  G.  M. 
MOSES  LEES,  P.  Pr.  G.  M. 
JOHN  TAYLOR,  P.  Pr.  D.  G.  M. 
T.  ABBOTT,  Pr.  G.  M. 


Seal. 
Seal. 
Seal. 
Seal. 
'Seal. 
Seal. 
Seal. 
Seal. 
Seal. 
Seal/ 
Seal/ 
Seal. 


The  vote  of  thanks  was  transmitted,  accompanied  by  an  offi- 
cial letter,  as  follows : 

BALTIMORE,  Oct.  18th,  1826. 
P.  G.  Mark  War  die,  Cor.  Sec.,  Manchester  District : 

SIR  AND  BROTHER — You  will  see  by  the  above  resolves  that  it 
has  become  my  duty,  and  it  is  a  very  pleasing  one,  to  communi- 
cate to  you  a  vote  of  thanks  for  the  honors  conferred  on  us,  by 
the  very  polite  and  generous  treatment  shown  our  worthy  Grand 
Sire,  during  the  time  he  sojourned  among  you.  Callous  indeed 
must  be  my  feelings,  could  I  comply  with  the  bare  formalities 
attending  my  office,  without  adding  a  few  words  of  my  own  on 
the  subject ;  and  in  assuming  them  as  my  own,,  I  trespass  on  the 
right  of  others,  for  I  feel  convinced  that  there  is  not  a  member 
of  the  Order  here,  who  does  not  largely  participate  in  them ;  and 
the  affectionate  manner  in  which  our  G.  Sire  speaks  of  your  treat- 
ment, leaves  not  a  doubt  but  that  he  too  feels  the  full* weight  of 
the  obligation  you  have  imposed  upon  him,  and  for  which  neither 
he  nor  the  lodge  can  consider  ourselves  exonerated  until  we 
have  an  opportunity  of  receiving  a  deputation  from  our  trans- 


186  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Atlantic  brethren  of  the  honorable  Order  of  Odd  Fellows.  Leav- 
ing an  affectionate  family  and  extensive  business,  which  require 
a  vast  deal  of  personal  attention,  G.  Sire  Wildey,  fully  aware  of 
the  dangers  incident  to  the  voyage,  but  feeling  the  great  bene- 
fit that  would  result  to  the  Order,  resolved  on  the  undertaking, 
tremblingly  alive  to  the  reception  he  might  meet  with,  and  the 
importance  of  the  trust  imposed  in  him.  The  heavens  seemed  to 
prosper  our  cause,  and  although  he  reached  you  after  a  very  short 
passage,  the  thought  of  home  had  gathered  clouds  around  his 
brow,  which  were  removed  by  the  kind  reception  he  met  with  at 
your  hands.  His  every  hour  was  made  joyous  by  your  unwearied 
attention,  and  the  sympathy  felt  for  his  safe  return.  All  this 
conspired  to  render  it,  as  he  himself  happily  describes  it,  the  most 
agreeably  painful  period  of  his  life. 

It  gives  me  pleasure  to  be  enabled  to  state  that  his  voyage 
Lome,  though  not  as  short  as  the  one  out,  was  agreeable ;  and 
though  in  the  gale  of  the  8th  and  9th,  when  so  much  havoc  was 
made  among  the  shipping  on  the  ocean,  he  escaped  uninjured, 
clearly  evincing  the  hand  of  Providence  in  support  of  our  cause. 
The  charter  granted  by  you,  and  presented  to  the  Grand  Sire,  has 
T)een  received,  and  is  an  ornament  to  our  lodge-room.  This  will 
l>e  spoken  more  largely  of  hereafter.  In  conclusion,  let  me  assure 
you  that  the  bonds  of  union  subsisting  between  Odd  Fellows  are 
strongly  cementing,  and  that  the  recent  visit  of  G.  Sire  Wildey 
will  have  a  very  favorable  effect  in  that  respect.  Wishing  you 
individually,  and  the  brethren  generally,  health,  happiness  and 
prosperity,  and  that  we  may  soon  have  the  pleasure  of  some  of 
your  company,  I  remain,  sir  and  brother,  yours  fraternallv,  in  F. 
L. and  T. 

W.  WILLIAMS,  G.  S.  of  U.  S. 

P.  S. — The  G.  Sire  desires  me  to  present  to  you,  and 
through  you  to  the  officers  and  brethren  of  the  district,  his  best 
respects,  and  desires  me  to  say,  that  he  will  take  an  early  oppor- 
tunity to  acknowledge  his  obligations  to  you. 

W.  WILLIAMS. 

Approved :  THOMAS  WILDEY,  G.  S.  of  the  G.  L.  of  U.  S. 
To  which  the  following  reply  was,  in  due  time,  received : 

MANCHESTER,  January  8th,  1827. 

Dear  Sir  and  Brother — Yours,  announcing  the  safe  arrival 
of  G.  S.  Wildey,  gave  much  pleasure  and  satisfaction  to  all  those 
who  heard  me  read  it.  I  am  sorry  that  the  letter  cannot  be  cir- 
culated throughout  the  Order,  by  the  Magazine,  as  T  have  been 
compelled,  for  want  of  support,  to  discontinue  the  work.  Want 
of  money  among  the  working  classes  is  the  principal  cause.  I 
have  nothing  new  or  of  moment  to  communicate.  The  Indepen- 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  187 

dent  Order  is  in  a  most  flourishing  state  here,  considering  the 
depression  of  trade,  which,  I  am  sorry  to  say,  is  as  bad  as  ever. 
If  money  were  more  plentiful,  I  verily  believe  we  should  initiate 
the  whole  country.  I  should  have  written  you  sooner,  but  for 
the  difficulty  of  getting  the  parcel  sent  off.  The  Liverpool  lodges, 
though  in  compliance,  are  not  to  be  depended  upon ;  G.  S.  Wil- 
dey  can  satisfy  you  on  that  head.  Brother  Sissons  (brother-in- 
law  to  brother  Hodgson)  is  now  at  my  elbow,  waiting  to  take  this 
to  Liverpool ;  he  belongs  to  our  lodge,  and  I  can  rely  on  his  punc- 
tuality. In  requesting  you,  sir,  to  present  my  most  sincere  con- 
gratulations to  your  worthy  G.  Sire  on  his  arrival,  I  can  safely 
affirm,  that  I  convey  the  feeling  of  the  whole  district.  You  could 
not  have  sent  out  a  more  proper  pilgrim.  His  mild  and  ready, 
though  always  manly  answers,  the  general  suavity  of  his  manners, 
added  to  his  simple  and  unaffected  style  of  delivery,  rendered 
him  justly  the  admiration  of  all  who  saw  him.  In  addition,  I 
must  say,  that  those  who,  like  myself,  had  the  pleasure  of  being 
most  frequently  with  him,  respect  him  the  most.  Accept  for 
yourself,  dear  sir  and  brother,  my  best  wishes  for  your  welfare 
and  the  prosperity  of  American  Odd  Fellowship,  and  believe  me 
to  be,  in  bonds  of  F.  L.  and  T.,  yours  truly, 

MARK  WARDLE,  C.  S. 
To  G.  S.  WILLIAM  WILLIAMS,  Baltimore. 

The  vote  of  thanks  to  Manchester  wrill  be  laid  before  our  next 
committee,  and  noticed  in  the  March  minutes. 

The  G.  Sire  did  not  go  to  England  with  an  empty  hand,  but 
bore  with  him  the  precious  legacy  of  G.  Sec.  Entwisle,  the  degrees 
of  Covenant  and  Remembrance;  also  the  American  G.  Lodge 
Degree,  which  were  approved  by  the  Annual  Movable  Committee, 
and  left  for  adoption.  The  Covenant  and  Remembrance  were 
afterwards  formally  accepted  and  incorporated  with  the  work, 
but  the  G.  Lodge  degree  was  not  suitable  to  the  English  form  of 
government  and  was  rejected.  When  the  old  English  work  was 
almost  wholly  abolished,  the  American  degrees  suffered  a  like 
fate,  and  were  excluded. 

At  the  time  of  the  visit  of  the  G.  Sire,  the  Order  in  Britain 
published  a  magazine,  to  which  reference  is  often  made  in  the 
journal  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  IT.  S.  It  was  ably  edited,  and 
furnished  reading  not  only  for  its  own  membership,  but  to  such 
as  were  able  to  obtain  it  on  this  side  of  the  ocean.  Its  articles 
were  often  read  in  the  G.  Lodge,  and  were  made  the  text  for 
many  a  homily  on  our  distinctive  principles.  It  was  in  full 


188  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

sympathy  with  the  G.  Sire,  and  gave  a  glowing  account  of 
his  visit.  (See  Journal  86 — 7,  8,  9.)  It  was  a  proud  day  when 
the  founder  parted  with  the  English  brethren.  The  great  Odd 
Fellows  of  the  Manchester  Unity  crowned  him  in  their  own 
language,  as  "  Founder  and  Father  of  American  Odd  Fellow- 
ship." 

As  we  have  before  indicated,  the  course  pursued  toward  the 
G.  Sire  did  infinite  honor  to  the  Odd  Fellows  of  the  mother 
country.  There  is  no  instance  in  history  which  we  might 
properly  invoke,  that  manifests  more  fully  the  nature  and  power 
of  the  principles  they  professed.  An  interchange  like  this  of 
what  is  beautiful  and  noble  in  the  human  character,  does  more 
for  mankind  than  all  the  barren  systems  and  "  flea-bitten  "  philo- 
sophies by  which  men  have  so  often  been  deluded  and  never 
fraternized.  We  triumphantly  point  to  these  thrilling  incidents,, 
as  proof  of  the  practical  culture  and  mighty  influence  of  Odd 
Fellowship. 

The  second  meeting  of  the  special  committee  was  called  by 
the  G.  Sire  on  the  30th  of  October,  1826,  to  consider  a  letter 
received  from  P.  G.  Benjamin  Downing,  of  New  York,  requesting 
a  dispensation  for  Providence,  Rhode  Island,  when  the  G.  Sec. 
was  directed  to  convey  to  the  writer  all  the  necessary  in- 
formation. 

On  May  the  1st,  1827,  the  third  annual  session  was  assembled 
at  Wildey's  Odd  Fellows'  Hall  on  Gay  Street.  All  the  G. 
Officers,  excepting  D.  G.  S.  Welch,  were  present,  and  the  fol- 
lowing reps,  and  proxies :  Reps.  Thomas  Scotchbum,  of  Mary- 
land, and  John  Pearce,  of  Pennsylvania ;  Proxies  John  Roach, 
of  Massachusetts,  and  Richard  Marley,  of  New  York.  The  G. 
Lodge  adopted  a  resolution,  approving  of  the  correspondence 
with  England,  and  especially  of  the  work  of  Wildey  and  the 
publication  on  the  subject  by  the  Manchester  Odd  Fellows* 
Magazine.  It  was  also  ordered  that  the  article  be  entered  in  the 
journal,  which  was  afterwards  done.  The  reports  from  the  G. 
Lodges  were  favorable.  G.  M.  Hersey  had  instituted  a  lodge 
styled  Good  Samaritan,  No.  3,  at  Tauiiton,  Massachusetts.  From 
Pennsylvania  the  report  was  encouraging,  and  the  Order  in  New 
York  was  represented  as  prosperous.  Maryland  gave  in  a  good 
report,  with  a  statement  that  a  lodge  had  been  instituted,  named 
William  Tell,  No.  4.  This  lodge  was  set  on  foot  by  G.  S. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  189 

Wildey  as  one  of  its  charter  members,  who  gave  it  his  personal 
attention,  and  continued  a  member  in  good  standing  until  his 
death.  It  was  and  is  the  MOTHER  GERMAN  LODGE  in  the  Order, 
and  continues  to  this  day  to  work  in  the  German  and  English 
tongue.  It  was  also  stated  that  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  was  about 
to  have  a  copperplate  engraved  for  "  travelling  certificates,"  so 
as  to  suit  any  jurisdiction  or  lodge,  and  to  prevent  imposition. 
This  is  the  first  official  mention  of  "  cards,"  although  "  certifi- 
cates," as  they  were  called,  had  been  in  use  for  many  years.  In 
the  journal  of  1823  it  is  recorded  that  "  G.  Con.  Anstice  returned 
his  apron  to  the  G.  Lodge,  having  removed  to  Philadelphia  and 
withdrawn  his  card  from  Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  and  honor- 
ably departed  this  city."  (Journal,  60.)  Again,  in  1824,  com- 
plaint is  made  by  the  N.  G.  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1, 
"concerning  Bro.  Whitehead's  leaving  Baltimore  without  his 
card."  (Journal,  69.) 

In  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  subsequently,  on  November  14,  1826, 
the  following  was  adopted :  "  Resolved,  that  this  G.  Lodge  pur- 
chase a  copperplate  for  travelling  certificates."  And  on  the 
28th  of  February,  1828,  the  price  of  cards  was  fixed  at  six  dol- 
lars per  hundred  to  its  own  subordinates  and  four  dollars  per 
hundred  for  the  subordinates  of  other  States.  The  subject  of 
€ards  leads  us  to  narrate  the  reason  for  their  adoption  and  the 
uses  to  which  they  wrere  applied.  Relief  was  originally  confined 
to  brothers  out  of  work  and  on  tramp.  When  the  case  was  pre- 
sented to  the  lodge,  the  Warden's  axe  went  round  for  voluntary 
contributions;  if  the  brother  failed  to  get  employment,  the 
nearest  lodge  to  his  temporary  residence  continued  to  assist  him 
for  a  reasonable  time  until  some  engagement  \vas  found.  As  the 
dues  were  small  and  the  treasury  wreak,  as  was  then  always  the 
-case,  the  aid  given  was  at  best  precarious  and  insufficient.  The 
lodges  were  also  liable  to  imposition  on  the  part  of  those  whose 
habits  and  character  were  such  that  they  were  seldom  or  never 
at  work,  and  in  many  instances  persons  who  were  not  members 
obtained  this  pittance  under  false  colors.  The  card  placed  the 
\vhole  arrangement  upon  a  footing  equally  beneficial  to  the 
member  and  to  the  Order,  and  gave  permanent  character  to  a 
policy  which  is  an  integral  part  of  the  work.  "  To  go  on  tramp 'T 
was  in  those  days  a  general  custom  of  mechanics  out  of  employ 
ment ;  the  phrase  was  also  applied  to  itinerant  tradesmen. 


190  AMEEICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  early  English  lodges  had  but  a  small  supply  of  money, 
and  were  never  prepared  to  grant  adequate  relief.  The  sources 
of  revenue  were  fines  for  not  singing  a  song,  telling  a  story,  offer- 
ing a  sentiment,  or  doing  some  like  thing  for  the  common  enter- 
tainment. In  this  country,  up  to  1829,  it  was  usual  to  pass  the 
Warden's  axe  at  the  opening  of  the  lodge,  for  the  regular  dues, 
and  also  for  such  contributions  as  might  be  made  by  the  members ;. 
in  fact,  we  have  it  on  good  authority  that  the  ancient  custom  is 
still  followed  by  certain  lodges  in  New  Jersey  and  Pennsylvania. 

But  to  return  to  the  proceedings  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland. 
The  action  of  that  body  in  assuming  to  issue  blank  forms,  was  an 
assumption  that  would  not  now  be  tolerated ;  but  it  had  so  lately 
held  the  supreme  authority  that,  under  the  direction  of  Wildey, 
it  continued  for  a  short  time  longer  to  exercise  more  than, 
the  ordinary  functions  of  a  State  G.  Lodge.  Besides,  the  new 
central  power  was  yet  nascent,  and  had  no  treasury,  and  was  not 
alive  to  a  sense  of  its  prerogative,  which  has  since  been  so  wisely 
exercised  in  furnishing  supplies  to  its  subordinates.  The  result 
was  that  Maryland  furnished  cards  until  the  year  1844,  when  the 
G.  Lodge  awoke  to  a  knowledge  of  its  own  interests  and  import- 
ance, and  took  charge  of  the  matter.  In  that  year  it  was  "  Re- 
solved, that  the  G.  Sec.  be  instructed  to  cause  a  suitable  plate 
of  the  cards  of  clearance  and  visiting  cards  adopted  at  this  session 
to  be  engraved,  and  that  the  State  G.  Lodges  and  Encampments 
be  furnished  with  said  cards  at  cost ;  and  than  no  State  G.  Lodge 
or  G.  Encampment  shall  have  a  right  to  print  said  cards  after  the 
1st  of  January  next."  This  was  an  assertion  of  authority  which 
made  way  for  other  reforms  in  the  same  direction,  whose  tendency 
was  to  bring  about  system  and  uniformity.  The  cards  thus  be- 
came uniform,  and  under  superior  sanctions  were  more  solemn 
and  valuable.  Imposition  became  more  difficult,  and  the  holder 
was  everywhere  under  the  protection  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S. 

But  to  return  again  to  the  proceedings  of  May  the  1st,  1827. 
It  was  ordered  that  a  vote  of  thanks  to  G.  S.  Wildey  be  prepared 
for  his  exertions  in  promoting  the  good  of  the  Order,  and  for  the 
service  rendered  by  his  late  voyage  to  England  ;  and  that  the  same 
be  handsomely  framed  at  the  expense  of  the  G.  Lodge.  The  con- 
stitution of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  was  presented  by  Rep. 
Pearce,  together  with  a  copy  of  the  work  of  its  subordinates, 
which  was  gratefully  responded  to  by  the  G.  Sire.  A  new  G. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  191 

charter  was  also  granted  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  in  lieu 
of  that  formerly  granted  that  body.  G.  S.  Wildey  then  called 
attention  to  the  change  to  the  new  signs  which  had  been  adopted 
in  England ;  the  old  signs  having  been  abolished.  But  the  G.  Lodge 
was  shocked  at  this  innovation  upon  ancient  usage,  and  declared  the 
act  to  be  an  invasion  of  the  landmarks  of  the  Order,  and  resolved 
to  adhere  to  the  old  entersign,  countersign,  P.  Word  and  G.  It 
was  ordered  that  brothers  should  be  instructed  in  both  forms,  and 
that  the  English  lodges  be  requested  to  follow  this  example,  by 
imparting  both  the  old  and  new  signs  to  all  brothers  about  to 
visit  this  country.  The  A.  T.  P.  "W.  was  then  ordered  to  be 
placed  in  the  possession  of  the  G.  M.  and  D.  G.  M.  of  each  State 
jurisdiction ;  when,  as  the  record  reads,  the  session  was  closed 
"  in  friendship  and  brotherly  love."  Fourteen  subordinate  lodges 
were  reported  in  the  several  jurisdictions,  but  no  further  statistics- 
of  the  operations  of  the  year  are  recorded. 

Two  special  committee  meetings  were  held  on  12th  of  Nov- 
ember, 1827,  and  15th  of  January,  1828.  At  the  first  a  charter 
was  granted  to  Central  Lodge,  No.  1,  at  Washington,  District  of 
Columbia,  upon  the  petition  of  Thomas  M.  Abbett,  Robert  Boyd, 
John  Cragg,  Thomas  Smith  and  Samuel  Knapp.  G.  Sire  Wildey 
was  authorized  to  open  the  lodge  on  the  26th  of  November, 

1827.  At  the  second  meeting  a  charter  was  granted  to  George- 
town Lodge,  No.  2,  also  in  the  District  of  Columbia,  upon  the 
petition  of  "Robert  Boyd,  T.  Wedds,  Francis  King,  John  Elvans, 
John  Douglass  and  John  Cragg.     The  G.  S.  was  directed  to  insti- 
tute this  lodge  on  the  23d  of  January,  1828,  and  thanks  were 
voted  to  Thomas  M.  Abbett  for  his  energy  and  valuable  services. 
At  this  meeting  information  was  received  of  the  expulsion  of 
Strangers'  Refuge  Lodge,  No.  4,  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  New  York ; 
the  action  was  confirmed,  and  notice  ordered  to  be  sent  to  each  of 
the  State  G.  Lodges.     This  penalty  was  inflicted  for  insubordina- 
tion and  persistent  resistance  to  the  authority  of  its  G.  Lodge. 

The  fourth  regular  annual  session  took  place  on  May  the  1st, 

1828.  The  G.  S.  presided,  and  all  the  officers  were  present,  ex- 
cepting the  G.  Sec.,  whose  place  was  temporarily  filled.     The 
credentials  of  the  reps,  and  proxies  in  attendance  were  examined 
and  found  to  be  correct.     It  was  found  that  Massachusetts  was 
not  in  any  manner  represented  ;  an  unfavorable  augury.     The 
reports  from  the  other  States  gave  unmistakable  evidence  of  de- 


192  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

cided  progress.  The  yearly  report  was  more  comprehensive  than 
heretofore ;  there  was  given,  in  addition  to  the  number  of  lodges  in 
^ach  State,  the  number  of  expulsions  and  contributing  members, 
with  a  column  in  the  table  for  special  remarks.  The  number  of 
subordinate  lodges  had  reached  195  having  increased  since  the 
first  report  (1825)  by  7  lodges ;  and  although  the  aggregate  member- 
ship does  not  appear,  yet  in  Pennsylvania  it  had  reached  568. 
The  minutes  of  the  session  are  also  more  extended  than  on 
former  occasions,  and  evince  an  improvement  in  the  department 
of  the  G.  Sec.  That  office  being  vacant,  John  J.  Roach,  P.  G., 
was  appointed  by  the  G.  S.  to  fill  the  vacancy.  No  reason 
appears  on  the  journal  for  this  vacancy  in  the  office  to  which  Bro. 
"Williams  had  been  elected  for  the  term  of  four  years ;  the  sequel 
however  discloses  the  fact  that  Williams  had  been  expelled. 
Communications  were  presented  from  the  Manchester  Unity, 
relating  to  the  changes  of  "  the  signs."  Immediate  action  took 
place,  to  the  effect  that  both  should  be  taught  to  initiates, 
but  that  the  new  sign  should  be  the  proper  working  sign.  The 
rule  was  established  at  this  session,  that  the  name  and  number  of 
a  lodge  which  had  been  suspended,  or  which  from  any  cause 
had  ceased  to  work,  should  not  be  granted  to  any  other  lodge. 
This  legislation  continued  in  force,  and  was  not  repealed  until 
1873  and  1876.  (Journal,  5949,  7008,  7064.)  A  copy  of  the  seal 
of  each  G.  and  subordinate  lodge  was  ordered  to  be  transmitted 
to  the  Sec.  so  that  a  cabinet  of  seals  should  be  formed.  The 
amendment  by  Pennsylvania,  laid  on  the  table  the  previous  year, 
changing  the  time  of  meeting  from  the  first  of  May  to  the  first 
Monday  in  May,  was  adopted.  The  vote  of  thanks  ordered  at 
the  last  session  to  be  prepared  and  tendered  to  the  G.  S.  was 
brought  in,  and  the  lodge  took  a  recess  from  business ;  when  Rep. 
Small  of  Pennsylvania  made  the  presentation  with  appropriate 
remarks,  to  which  the  G.  Sire  made  a  suitable  reply. 

The  following  is  a  copy  of  the  resolutions,  which  were 
engrossed,  and  enclosed  in  a  beautiful  frame : 

"But  the  greatest  of  these  is  Charity" 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  of  the  Independent 
Order  of  Odd  Fellows :  to  all  lodges  and  worthy  brethren  through- 
out the  Globe,  these  presents  in  Friendship,  Love  and  Truth,  come 
greeting :  Know  ye,  that  taking  into  consideration  the  long 
services  and  unwearied  exertions  of  our  Most  Worthy  Grand  Sire, 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  193 

Thomas  Wildey,  to  whom  Odd  Fellowship  in  America  is  chiefly 
indebted  for  its  rise  and  progress  ;  and  particularly  the  sacrifices 
he  has  lately  made  by  crossing  the  Atlantic  in  search  of  informa- 
tion for  the  welfare  of  the  Order,  by  which  we  have  been 
materially  benefitted ;  and  desirous  of  showing  him  some  mark  of 
our  respect  for  his  private  virtues  and  public  services,  we  have  on 
the  first  day  of  May,  A.  D.  1827,  at  the  Grand  Annual  Commu- 
nication of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  passed  the 
following  resolution : 

Resolved,  That  this  Grand  Lodge  have  prepared  a  vote  of 
thanks  to  our  Most  Worthy  Grand  Sire,  for  his  unwrearied  exer- 
tions in  promoting  the  good  of  the  Order,  and  particularly  for 
the  services  rendered  by  his  late  voyage  to  England ;  that  the 
same  be  handsomely  framed,  and  the  expenses  thereof  paid  out  of 
the  funds  of  this  Lodge. 

In  accordance  with  which  resolve,  we,  the  undersigned  Offi- 
cers, Proxies  and  Representatives  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United  States,  have  caused  the  same  to  be  prepared,  and  now 
respectfully  present  the  same  to  our  Most  Worthy  Grand  Sire, 
THOMAS  WILDEY,  with  our  best  wishes  for  his  future  welfare ;  hum- 
bly trusting  he  will  go  on  and  persevere  in  raising  the  noble  struc- 
ture, of  which  he  is  the  father  and  founder  in  America ;  in  the 
benefits  resulting  from  which  many  have  already  largely  partici- 
pated ;  and  that  he  may  ever  so  conduct  himself  to  deserve,  as  he 
now  receives,  the  warmest  admiration  of  every  Odd  Fellow. 

In  testimony  whereof,  we  have  hereunto  set  our  respective 
names,  and  displayed  the  colors  of  the  Order,  in  Grand  Lodge  of 
the  United  States,  at  Baltimore,  this  nineteenth  day  of  May, 
Anno  Domini  1827,  on  which  day  the  Grand  Seal  of  said  Lodge 
was  annexed. 

JOHN  WELCH,  D.  G.  S. 

[SEAL]  JOHN  ROACH,  G.  G. 

JOHN  J.  ROACH,  G.  S. 

THOMAS  SCOTCHBURN,  Rep.  of  Md. 

THOMAS  SMALL,  Rep.  of  Penn. 

The  expulsion  of  Strangers'  Refuge  Lodge,  of  New  York,  for 
insubordination,  was  ordered  to  be  published  in  the  newspapers 
of  the  several  jurisdictions.  But  the  most  important  business 
transacted  was  the  adoption  of  a  resolution  providing  for  a  Grand 
Movable  Committee,  whose  duty  it  should  be  to  move  once  in  four 
years  through  the  States  in  which  G.  Lodges  were  organized ;  the 
committee  to  consist  of  the  G.  S.  and  a  Rep.  or  Froxy  to  be  ap- 
pointed by  him.  This  was  an  experiment  fashioned  upon  the 
plan  of  the  English  system  of  government,  and,  as  it  will  appear, 
did  not  prove  successful.  It  was  also  ordered  that  the  degrees 
13 


194:  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

be  revised,  and  thanks  were  voted  to  prominent  members  of  the 
Manchester  Unity,  whose  names  are  in  the  journal.  Two  reso- 
lutions, however,  of  general  interest  were  introduced  at  the  close 
of  the  session,  and  passed.  First,  "that  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
U.  S.  most  strenuously  recommends  the  establishment  of  Patriar- 
chal Encampments  throughout  the  different  States,  as  they  will 
prove  of  considerable  use  and  benefit  to  the  Independent  Order." 
This  was  responsive  to  the  information  communicated  at  the 
opening  of  the  session,  by  Rep.  Scotchburn,  of  Md.,  that  in  that 
State  an  Encampment  of  Patriarchs  had  been  formed,  "  the  estab- 
lishment of  which  was  considered  a  great  improvement  in  the 
Order."  This  movement,  which  has  had  such  grand  results,  has- 
been  fully  considered  elsewhere  in  this  volume.  Secondly, 
that,  "  Whereas  the  constitution  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S. 
of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  is  defective  in 
several  of  its  articles,  therefore,  resolved,  that  the  same  be  taken 
up  for  consideration  and  general  revision."  Whereupon  Rep. 
Small,  of  Pennsylvania,  submitted  a  draft  of  a  new  constitution, 
which  was  read,  and  after  undergoing  various  alterations,  was 
ordered  to  be  referred  to  the  several  G.  Lodges  for  their  approval. 
This  was  orderly  and  in  accordance  with  the  existing  constitu- 
tion, and  was  moreover  strictly  correct  in  its  designation  of  the 
name  and  style  of  the  Order.  Some  modifications  were  made 
in  the  mode  of  conferring  degrees ;  and  after  adopting  financial 
regulations,  altering  the  form  of  the  annual  reports,  directing 
the  list  of  lodges  to  be  published,  and  passing  a  vote  of  thanks  to 
Rep.  Small,  the  session  was  closed,  in  "  Friendship,  Love  and 
Truth." 

We  have  referred  to  the  correct  phraseology  used  at  this  ses- 
sion with  reference  to  the  Order,  and  deem  it  a  subject  of  suffi- 
cient importance  to  examine  in  detail,  as  on  this  point,  for  many 
years,  all  was  discrepancy  and  confusion.  In  the  minutes  of  the 
early  days,  both  in  England  and  America,  the  reader  is  struck 
with  the  want  of  uniformity  in  the  name  and  initials  which 
designated  Odd  Fellowship.  The  journal  of  the  G.  Lodge 
of  the  U.  S.  seemed  to  contradict  itself  constantly,  in  almost  every 
reference  made  to  the  name.  It  was  indifferently  that  of  Inde- 
pendent Odd  Fellows,  Independent  Odd  Fellowship,  Order  of 
Independent  Odd  Fellows,  and  then  again,  Independent  Order 
of  Odd  Fellows,  which  last  was  evidently  the  original,  adopted 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  195 

at  Manchester  at  the  formation  of  the  Unity,  from  which  the 
American  Order  was  derived.  Attention  has  been  especially 
directed  to  the  variance  in  the  titular  captions  employed  from 
time  to  time  in  official  documents  issued  by  the  G.  bodies  of  the 
Order.  For  instance,  the  charter  from  the  Manchester  Unity  to 
the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.,  15th  of  May,  1826,  is  distinctively 
headed  with  the  letters  "  I.  O.  O.  F.";  and  the  fact  is  set  forth 
that  the  dispensation  in  granted  in  consideration  of  the  charter 
formerly  granted  by  the  Duke  of  York  Lodge,  Preston,  to  certain 
officers  and  brothers  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows, 
of  Baltimore,  in  the  United  States  of  America.  The  actual  reci- 
tal in  the  dispensation  here  referred  to,  is  "  to  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States  of  America,  of  the  Inde- 
pendent Order  of  Odd  Fellowship."  So  also  in  several  charters 
issued  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.,  the  initials  O.  I.  O.  F.  pre- 
vail, as  well  as  in  many  official  papers.  This  confusion  evidently 
is  chargeable  to  the  incompetency  or  negligence  of  the  proper 
officers.  After  some  research,  the  following  appears  to  us  indis- 
putably to  establish  the  style  and  title  of  the  Order. 

The  name  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  was 
accpired  by  a  movement  in  the  direction  of  reform,  set  on  foot  at 
Manchester,  England,  by  a  few  Odd  Fellows  who  had  been 
connected  with  the  ancient  Order  in  London,  sometimes  called 
the  London  Unity.  This  step  was  led  by  a  marble  mason  of  the 
name  of  Bolton,  who  in  the  year  1809  went  to  Manchester,  and 
there  organized  a  lodge,  under  a  dispensation  from  the  G.  Lodge 
of  England ;  which  title  was  assumed  by  the  London  Unity. 
This  lodge  was  called  Victory  Lodge,  and  was  followed  about  the 
year  1810,  by  the  change  of  a  beneficial  club  at  Salford,  Manches- 
ter, into  a  lodge  of  Odd  Fellows,  called  the  "  Lord  Abercrombie 
Grand  Lodge."  This  new  lodge  was  founded  by  one  Eobert 
Naylor,  afterwards  Grand  Master  of  the  Manchester  Unity.  It 
introduced  an  improved  financial  system,  and  attracted  a  decidedly 
better  material.  By  virtue  of  its  name  and  paternity  it  took  the 
lead  among  the  lodges  in  Manchester.  For  a  time  there  was  a 
want  of  harmony,  arising  out  of  this  assumption  of  superiority  by 
"  Lord  Abercrombie  G.  Lodge,"  but  better  counsels  prevailing,  a 
convention  of  the  lodges  agreed  upon  a  union,  on  .which  the 
Manchester  organization  was  constructed  in  1814,  as  an  "Inde- 
pendent Order  of  Odd  Fellows."  The  various  orders  of  Odd 


196  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Fellows  in  the  city  of  London  had,  as  they  severally  sprung  up, 
arbitrarily  distinguished  themselves  by  special  titles  or  appella- 
tions. Hence  great  confusion  prevailed  as  these  names  multiplied. 
Several  years  elapsed  before  even  in  the  Manchester  district  the 
Independent  Order  adhered  uniformly  to  its  distinctive  "  I.  O.  O.  F." 
Sometimes  the  term  used  was  I.  O.  F.,  sometimes  "  Independent 
Odd  Fellowship  ";  again  it  was  designated  I.  O.  O.  F. ;  and  thus 
it  continued  until  the  administration  was  directed  by  more  skil- 
ful officers,  who  were  required  to  subscribe  the  name  officially. 

A  like  confusion  prevailed  in  this  country  in  early  Odd  Fel- 
lowship. We  have  seen  that  the  original  charter  of  Washington 
Lodge,  No.  1,  contained  the  style  of  the  "  Independent  Order  of 
Odd  Fellowship."  After  the  acceptance  of  that  charter,  and  the 
union  with  the  Manchester  Unity,  we  have  no  means  of  ascer- 
taining by  what  title  the  Order  was  originally  known  in  Mary- 
land ;  but  after  the  formation  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  the 
U.  S.,  in  1821,  the  divergent  styles  frequently,  appear.  At  a 
meeting  of  that  body ,  of  August  22,1821,  a  resolution  was  adopted, 
hailing  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2,  as  a  legal  lodge  of  "  Independent 
Odd  Fellows."  Again,  at  a  special  meeting  of  the  G.  Committee 
of  December  19,  1821,  the  body  is  characterized  as  the  "  Grand 
Committee  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  I.  O.  F.  of  Md.  and  of 
the  U.  S.  of  America."  But  on  the  22d  of  February,  1822,  we 
find  on  the  journal,  in  the  annual  reports  of  the  subordinate  lodges, 
"  I.  O.  O.  F.,"  and  so  in  the  reports  of  1823.  The  charter  from 
England  to  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  1,  New  York,  uses  the  phrase 
of  Independent  Odd  Fellows  in  the  description  of  the  name, 
whereas  the  grant  therein  contained  was  to  establish  a  lodge  of 
Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows.  Again  the  application  from 
the  same  lodge  to  the  American  authorities  for  a  charter  is  in 
behalf  of  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  1,  I.  O.  F. ;  whilst  the  new 
charter  granted  sets  out  as  follows :  "  Order  of  Independent  Odd 
Fellows,"  and  the  grant  was  to  five  P.  Grands  by  that  name. 
At  page  66  of  the  journal,  at  a  general  committee  meeting,  a 
formal  report  was  submitted  by  Wildey,  Welch  and  Entwisle,  in 
which  they  use  the  letters  "  O.  I.  O.  F.,"  in  styling  the  Order ; 
wrhile  at  page  70,  the  first  restitution  which  appears  in  print  is 
of  the  "  In-dependent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows." 

The  name  and  style  having  become  a  constitutional  enact- 
ment, it  would  be  supposed  that  erratic  appellations  would  be 


THE    GKAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED   STATES.  197 

discontinued.  Not  so,  however,  for  at  page  72  we  find  reference 
"  to  any  lodge  of  the  I.  O.  F.,"  and  at  page  73  it  is  called  the 
"  Order  of  Odd  Fellowship."  Such  culpable  indifference  appears 
to  have  possessed  our  ancestors  upon  this  subject,  that  several 
styles  or  titles  continued  to  be  given  promiscuously  to  the  Order 
in  England  as  well  as  in  this  country,  notwithstanding,  as  we 
have  remarked,  the  Manchester  Unity,  the  parent  body,  sprang 
into  existence  distinctively  as  an  "  Independent  Order  of  Odd 
Fellows,"  and  so  distinctively  declared  its  name.  In  this,  as  in 
everything  else  connected  with  the  growth  of  the  Order,  uniform- 
ity was  only  attained  after  careful  hands  were  called  to  the  work. 
The  early  minutes  and  records  partook  of  the  character  of  the 
original  men,  and  the  present  admirable  system  is  the  gathered 
wisdom  of  half  a  century.  After  the  formation  of  the  G.  Lodge 
of  the  United  States,  imder  its  constitution  as  of  the  Inde- 
pendent Order  of  Odd  Fellows  in  1825,  greater  care  appears  in 
adhering  to  the  constitutional  title.  Nevertheless,  departures 
from  the  proper  name  were  not  infrequent  until  1834,  when  a 
remarkable  occurrence  appears  to  have  set  the  matter  at  rest. 
The  constitution  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Ohio  having  been  submitted 
for  approval,  it  was  referred  to  a  committee,  when  two  reports 
were  submitted.  The  majority  and  minority  reports  agreed  in 
substance  as  to  the  error  found  in  the  constitution  submitted  to 
them,  but  differed  in  the  resolutions  appended.  The  report  of 
the  minority,  which  was  adopted,  will  be  found  in  Journal  179. 
The  reply  of  Ohio,  presented  at  the  next  session,  speaks  for  itself: 

To  the  R.   W.  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States. 

The  committee  to  whom  was  referred  the  proceedings  of  the 
G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.,  in  reference  to  the  title-page  of  the  consti- 
tution and  by-laws  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Ohio,  begs  leave  to  report, 
that  notwithstanding  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  now  chooses  to 
direct  this  G.  Lodge  to  change  its  title  from  "  Order  of  Indepen- 
dent Odd  Fellows,"  to  that  of  the  "Independent  Order  of  Odd 
Fellows,"  yet  it  has  ever  given  us  the  strongest  reasons  for  using 
the  terms  that  we  have  employed.  We  will  here  state  a  few  of 
them.  The  charter  of  the  G.  Lodge,  derived  directly  from  the 
G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.,  is  headed  in  the  most  conspicuous  manner 
possible.  O.  of  1.  O.  F.  Thus  are  we  directed  by  the  very  fount 
of  our  being  to  use  the  terms  we  have,  and  should  we  have  used 
others  we  would  have  justly  deserved  censure.  And  besides, 
there  has  never  been  a  charter  received  in  this  State  from  the  G. 
Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  but  which  was  headed  "  Order  of  Independent 


198  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Odd  Fellows,"  or  simply  "  Independent  Odd  Fellows  ";  the  one 
bearing  us  out  in  the  whole,  the  other  in  the  essential  part  of  the 
title  we  have  used.  Again,  at  the  annual  communication  of  the 
G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.,  held  at  the  city  of  Baltimore,  commencing 
on  October  6,  1834,  we  find  the  report  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md. 
headed,  "  O.  of  I.  O.  F.";  and  in  the  report  of  the  G.  Lodge  of 
New  Jersey,  we  learn  that  the  "  Order  of  Independent  Odd 
Fellows  "  is  in  a  flourishing  condition.  In  the  report  of  the  G. 
Encampment  of  Md.,  we  again  find  "  O.  of  I.  O.  F."  used  in 
addressing  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  And  further,  on  page  27 
of  the  printed  proceedings  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.,  we 
observe  a  report  addressed  to  that  body  by  its  title  and 
"  O.  I.  O.  F.,"  and  signed  James  L.  Ridgely,  Charles  Mowatt  and 
Thomas  Wildey.  Tour  committee  does  not  pretend  to  assert 
that  O.  of  I.  O.  F.  is  indisputably  right,  but  it  wishes  to  show  by 
what  authority  the  term  has  been  adopted  in  this  State.  We  do 
not  therefore  think  that  we  have  fallen  into  an  error,  as  is 
supposed  in  a  report  adopted  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  IT.  S.  If 
there  is  an  error,  it  belongs  to  those  who  have  preceded  us. 
Your  committee  would  conclude  by  offering  the  following: 

Resolved,  That  James  L.  Bidgely,  our  Hep.  to  the  G.  L.  of 
the  U.  S.,  have  the  thanks  of  this  G.  Lodge  for  the  manner  in 
which  he  protested  against  the  right  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
U.  S.  to  interfere  with  the  constitution  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Ohio. 

Resolved,  That  this  G.  Lodge  continue  to  use  the  title  affixed 
to  its  constitution,  until  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  shall  pass  some 
resolution  settling  the  style  which  shall  be  used  throughout  the 
United  States. 

It  seems  that  these  resolutions  were  adopted  by  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Ohio,  but  were  afterwards  reconsidered  and  sent  to  the  G.  Lodge 
of  the  IT.  S.  The  communication  went  to  a  committee,  where 
it  was  permitted  to  sleep.  At  the  same  session  (1835),  the  com- 
mittee on  returns  reported  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  in  error  in  styling 
itself  O.  L  O.  F.  instead  of  I.  O.  of  O.  F.,  and  to  crown  the 
whole,  two  forms  of  reports  from  subordinates  are  appended  at 
the  end  of  the  journal,  one  containing  I.  O.  O.  F.  and  the  other 
I.  O.  of  O.  F.  as  the  title.  But  at  the  session  of  1836  the  com- 
mittee of  correspondence,  which  was  also  a  committee  on  consti- 
tutions, reported  upon  a  number  of  such  instruments,  and  cor- 
rected the  style  of  Wildey  Encampment  of  Patriarchs,  No.  1,  of 
Ohio,  by  adding  the  true  initials  of  the  Order,  I.  O.  O.  F.  So 
that  the  style  and  title  of  the  Order  in  this  country  was  settled 
correctly  at  last,  and  has  never  since  been  disturbed.  (Jour- 
nal 224.) 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  199 

It  may  here  be  remarked  that  our  undoubted  genesis  from  the 
Manchester  Unity,  and  want  of  affinity  with  Odd  Fellows  of  any 
other  style,  is  so  manifest  that  we  can  scarcely  believe  that  labored 
efforts  have  been  made  to  connect  American  Odd  Fellowship  with 
self-instituted  lodges  in  New  York  antecedent  to  Columbia  Lodge, 
No.  1,  of  that  State.  All  such  efforts  are  futile,  and  have  no  color 
of  authority  or  shadow  of  force ;  such  lodges  having  been  self- 
instituted  bodies,  called  Odd  jFellows,  having  no  connection  with 
the  Manchester  Unity  or  recognition  by  it ;  and,  if  having  any 
ritual,  most  probably  had  that  of  the  London  Order,  certainly 
not  ours.  But  we  now  resume  the  narrative  at  the  close  of  the 
fourth  annual  session  held  on  the  1st  of  May,  1838. 

Three  committee  meetings  were  held  in  the  recess ;  one  of 
September  28th,  1828,  at  which  a  charter  was  granted  for  a  G. 
Lodge  to  be  located  at  Washington,  District  of  Columbia,  upon 
the  petition  of  Thomas  M.  Abbett  and  John  Wells,  of  Lodge  No. 
1,  and  Robert  Boyd,  James  Gettys  and  James  Ash  ton,  of  Lodge 
No.  2.  The  numbers  in  the  two  lodges  which  had  been  organ- 
ized in  the  District,  were  not  reported  at  the  last  annual  session ; 
so  that  we  have  no  means  of  determining  whether  this  movement 
was  a  necessary  one.  At  the  close  of  the  next  year,  however, 
when  the  report  of  the  new  G.  Lodge  was  received,  there  were 
but  80  members  in  the  jurisdiction.  The  erection  of  this  G. 
Lodge  would,  therefore,  seem  to  have  been  premature.  But  the 
G.  Lodge,  notwithstanding,  wras  opened  by  G.  S.  Wildey,  on  the 
24th  of  November,  1828,  when  the  G.  Officers  were  installed. 
The  second  special  committee  wras  held  on  March  30th,  1829,  when 
a  charter  was  granted  for  a  lodge  to  be  located  at  Camden,  Newr 
Jersey,  to  be  hailed  by  the  title  of  New  Jersey  Lodge,  No.  1, 
upon  the  petition  of  brothers  George  Dare,  William  A.  H.  Dare, 
Howell  Stokes,  William  Middleton  and  Geo.  Roseman.  The  third 
meeting,  held  on  the  10th  day  of  April,  1829,  also  granted  a 
charter  for  a  lodge  to  be  located  at  Paterson,  New  Jersey,  and  to 
be  hailed  by  the  title  of  Benevolent  Lodge,  No.  2,  on  the  petition 
of  brothers  John  Armitage,  Abraham  Douckersly,  William  Wil- 
liams, John  Douckersly  and  James  McKim. 

The  proceedings  of  the  two  last  committee  meetings  were 
subscribed  by  John  Starr,  G.  Sec.  yyro  tern.  Brother  John  Starr 
had  been  recently  admitted  into  the  Order,  had  not  passed 
the  chairs,  and  had  little  or  no  experience  as  an  Odd  Fellow ;  but 


200  AMEBICAX    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

lie  had  received  a  liberal  education,  was  of  agreeable  manners, 
and  although  a  very  young  man,  had  become  a  favorite  com- 
panion of  G.  S.  Wildey.  When  G.  Sec.  Ridgely  was  initiated 
in  1829,  he  found  this  brother,  to  use  a  figure  we  all  understand, 
"  the  right  supporter  "  to  the  G.  Sire.  From  this  time  forward 
he  acted  as  G.  Sec.  pro  tern,  until  the  election  of  Brother  Au- 
gustus Mathiot  at  the  annual  session  of  1829.  In  that  interval, 
and  for  several  years  after,  he  was  the  private  secretary  and  in- 
tellectual prompter  of  Wildey;  but  unhappily  he  formed  bad 
habits,  rapidly  degenerated,  wras  dropped  from  his  lodge,  and  soon 
afterwards  died. 

The  fifth  annual  communication  was  opened  on  May  the  4th, 
1829,  under  the  amended  constitution,  being  the  first  Monday  in 
May.  The  following  were  present:  Officers,  Thomas  Wildey, 
G.  S. ;  John  Welch,  his  Deputy ;  John  Starr,  G.  Sec.  pro  tem.y 
and  Robert  Gott,  G.  G.  pro  tern.)  and  the  following  members: 
Reps.  John  Roach,  of  Maryland ;  John  H.  Campbell,  of  Penn- 
sylvania, and  Thomas  M.  Abbett,  of  the  District  of  Columbia, 
and  Proxies  Charles  Brice,  of  Massachusetts,  and  Richard 
Marley,  of  New  York.  It  will  be  seen  that  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
District  of  Columbia  had  sent  a  member  to  the  body,  thus  ex- 
tending the  area  of  the  federal  union.  The  constitution  was 
read,  and  the  last  year's  proceedings  of  the  Movable  Committee 
of  the  Manchester  Unity,  together  with  a  letter  from  the  English 
G.  Sec.  Wardle,  and  the  reply  of  the  G.  Sire,  all  of  which  were 
approved.  The  reports  of  the  several  representatives  were  then 
made  :  Maryland  was  flourishing ;  Massachusetts  was  in  a  critical 
condition,  the  G.  M.  was  without  officers,  and  discord  and  jealousy 
marked  the  proceedings  ;  New  York  was  in  "  a  promising  situa- 
tion ";  Pennsylvania  was  increasing  rapidly,  and  the  District 
had  an  increase  in  numbers.  In  the  aggregate  there  were  now 
5  G.  Lodges,  31  subordinates,  and  over  1000  contributing 
members. 

The  constitution  was  again  amended,  changing  the  time  of 
the  annual  meeting  from  the  first  Monday  in  May  to  the  first 
Monday  in  September.  The  resolution  creating  an  annual 
movable  committee  was  amended,  to  allow  the  G.  S.  to  appoint 
his  colleague  from  the  P.  G.'s  at  large.  There  being  no  treasury 
and  no  treasurer,  the  G.  S.  was  invested  with  the  functions  of 
that  office,  and  was  authorized  to  retain  one  hundred  dollars  to 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  201 

defray  the  necessary  expenses ;  keeping  a  correct  account  of  his 
receipts,  and  making  a  report  at  the  next  session.  A  vote  of 
thanks  was  then  awarded  to  the  G.  M.  and  D.  G.  JV1.  of  the 
Manchester  Unity,  for  their  services  in  the  Order.  The  lodge 
proceeded  to  the  election  of  officers,  when  the  following  were 
elected  and  installed :  Thomas  Wildey,  G.  S.  for  four  years, 
and  Augustus  Mathiot,  G.  Sec.  for  two  years.  The  G.  S. 
appointed  his  subordinates,  who  were  also  installed,  viz :  Thomas 
Scotchburn,  D.  G.  S.,  and  Robert  Gott,  G.  G.;  the  appointments 
having  been  approved  by  the  G.  Lodge.  The  amended  draft  of 
another  constitution,  which  had  been  proposed  at  the  last  session, 
and  submitted  to  the  State  G.  Lodges,  was  taken  up,  considered 
seriatim  and  adopted.  The  vote  is  not  known,  as  no  ayes  or 
noes  appear  upon  the  journal.  These  numerous  constitutions 
bear  internal  evidence  of  the  painstaking  effort  of  the  body  to 
perfect  a  system  of  fundamental  law  which  is  deserving  of  praise ; 
we  shall  not  copy  this  one,  which  may  be  found  on  Journal  99,. 
100  and  101. 

The  principal  alterations  in  the  constitution  of  1825,  as 
amended,  were  as  follows :  The  meeting  of  the  annual  session 
was  changed  from  the  first  Monday  in  May  to  the  first  Monday 
in  September ;  the  G.  S.  was  to  be  elected  one  year  before  enter- 
ing on  his  office  for  the  term  of  two  years,  and  to  be  re-eligible ; 
the  G.  Sec.  and  G.  G.  were  10  be  elected  each  for  two  years,, 
but  were  not  entitled  to  the  honors  of  office  unless  they  served 
four  years ;  and  subordinates  under  the  immediate  jurisdiction 
of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  should  pay  ten  per  cent,  of  their 
income  to  that  body.  The  failing  condition  of  the  Order  in 
Massachusetts  was  made  known,  and  the  G.  S.  was  instructed, 
on  the  occasion  of  the  next  visit  of  the  movable  committee,  to  use 
every  effort  to  revive  the  Order  in  that  State.  The  lectures  of 
the  subordinate  degrees  "  as  revised,"  says  the  journal,  were  taken 
up  and  further  modified ;  no  trace  of  such  revision  has  been 
preserved.  The  chief  feature  of  the  session  was  the  vote  of 
thanks  presented  to  G.  S.  Wildey,  "  for  his  indefatigable  exer- 
tions in  promoting  the  interest  of  the  Order,  and  for  his  general 
conduct  during  the  past  year."  The  G.  S.  arose  and  replied  in 
an  elaborate  address,  which  was  spread  upon  the  Journal,  pages 
103-4-5-6,  as  the  address  made  "  on  his  installation  for  the 
second  term."  This  production  was  a  brief  history  of  the  Order 


202  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

in  this  country,  put  in  strong  language,  with  the  inseparable 
connection  of  the  speaker  with  all  its  incidents,  and  gave  evidence 
of  deep  thought  and  strong  powers  in  the  writer.  So  far-reaching 
a  view  as  the  following  is  full  of  wisdom : 

"  The  constitution  of  our  federal  government,  framed  by  the 
wisdom  of  the  sages  of  the  Revolution,  wherein  twenty-four 
wheels  revolve  in  one  wheel,  twenty-four  empires  in  one  empire, 
and  twenty-four  sovereignties  in  one  sovereignty,  acting  together 
in  one  harmonious  concert,  the  beauty  of  its  symmetry  and 
practical  operation  has  commanded  the  gratitude  of  our  country- 
men and  the  applause  of  mankind.  Upon  this  system  has  been 
reared  the  government  of  Odd  Fellowship,  and  by  it  the  Order 
has  been  advanced,  its  interest  promoted,  and  its  prosperity 
secured." 

It  is  very  evident  that  Encampments  were  at  this  time  held 
only  as  Degree  Lodges  for  conferring  the  sublime  degrees.  The 
idea  of  making  them  a  separate  branch,  or  in  any  manner 
separating  them  from  the  G.  Lodges,  does  not  appear  to  have 
dawned  upon  the  legislators.  The  report  says :  "  The  sublime 
degrees  without  the  aid  of  Encampments  can  only  be  dispensed 
by  a  State  G.  Lodge,  and  from  its  locality  the  favored  few  of  its 
vicinity  almost  exclusively  enjoy  the  privilege  it  confers.  A 
•country  like  ours,  extended  as  it  is,  every  State  having  numerous 
cities  and  towns,  with  a  large  population  within  its  confines,  ex- 
tending in  territory  to  hundreds  of  miles,  should  of  itself  impress 
the  necessity  of  providing  the  means  wherewith  all  can  partici- 
pate in  the  advantages  that  the  Order  confers,  and  which  can 
only  be  accomplished  by  annexing  Encampments  to  the  sub- 
ordinate lodges."  This  address  will  amply  repay  perusal,  and 
indicates  a  new  intellectual  movement,  the  precursor  of  a  revolu- 
tion in  the  higher  walks  of  Odd  Fellowship.  After  providing 
for  a  draft  of  an  improved  form  of  reports  for  State  G.  Lodges, 
and  ordering  a  list  of  the  subordinates  to  be  appended  to  the 
minutes,  the  session  was  closed. 

Two  special  committee  meetings  were  held  during  the  ensuing 
year;  the  first  without  date  of  day  or  month,  1830,  conferred  a 
charter  on  a  lodge  to  be  located  in  the  city  of  Providence,  '.Rhode 
Island,  and  to  be  hailed  as  "  Friendly  Union  Lodge,  No.  1."  The 
petition  was  by  brothers  Henry  Hobson,  Waller  McFarlane, 
John  Doran,  Francis  Chadburn,  James  Bury  and  John  Bowcock. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  203 

The  second  special  committee  was  held  May  27th,  1830,  upon 
the  application  of  brothers  George  McFarlane,  James  McNeale, 
Thomas  Hill,  Simon  Robinson,  John  Scott,  Joseph  Smith,  James 
Platt,  Nelson  Ball  and  L.  Manchester,  praying  for  a  charter  for 
a  lodge  to  be  located  at  Wilmington,  Delaware,  by  the  name  of 
Delaware  Lodge,  No.  1 ;  which  was  granted. 

The  sixth  annual  communication  was  opened  on  the  6th  day 
of  September,  1830,  under  auspicious  circumstances ;  G.  S.  Wildey 
taking  the  chair  for  the  first  time  in  the  term  for  which  lie  had 
been  re-elected.  D.  G.  S.  Welch  drops  out  of  the  record  at  this 
session,  and  but  one  of  the  five  that  met  at  the  "  Seven  Stars  " 
remains.  Why  this  faithful  and  zealous  man  of  1819  retired  and 
left  his  early  friend  and  associate,  nowhere  appears ;  the  minutes 
and  tradition  being  both  silent  on  the  subject.  The  constitution 
being  read,  the  officers  installed  at  the  previous  session  took 
their  seats.  The  Reps,  present  were  Samuel  Lucas,  of  Mary- 
land ;  John  H.  Campbell,  of  Pennsylvania ;  and  James  Gettys, 
of  the  District  of  Columbia ;  Proxies  Charles  Brice,  of  Massachu- 
setts, and  Richard  Marley,  of  New  York. 

Thomas  Scotchburn,  who  filled  the  seat  of  D.  G.  S.  Welch, 
was  a  new  man,  who  had  but  recently  arrived  in  the  country,  and 
the  change  was  unwise,  if  it  could  have  been  avoided.  The  sound 
judgment  of  his  predecessor,  and  his  personal  standing  in  the 
community,  gave  him  a  local  influence  possessed  by  no  one  else,  and 
we  feel  assured  that  the  reasons  must  have  been  imperative  which 
caused  him  to  decline  an  appointment  for  a  second  term.  D.  G. 
S.  Scotchburn,  it  will  be  found  in  the  sequel,  did  not  make  his 
mark  in  the  Order,  although  we  find  his  name  up  to  1834;  after 
that  time  he  ceased  to  have  any  position  or  influence.  But  the 
loss  of  Welch  was  largely  compensated  by  the  acquisition  of  a 
G.  Sec.  equal  to  the  demands  of  the  position.  Entwisle  and 
Welch  had  both  held  the  office  and  had  filled  it  acceptably,  but 
their  successors  were  not  fortunately  chosen.  Augustus  Mathiot 
had  both  zeal  and  intelligence,  and  in  this  respect  the  new  admin- 
istration was  a  decided  improvement.  The  gain  also  was  great 
in  the  choice  of  a  G.  G.;  Robert  Gott  was  a  brother  of  great  per- 
sonal popularity  among  the  lodges,  and  had  done  good  service 
for  the  reform  in  Maryland.  The  same  may  be  said  of  Rep.  Lu- 
cas of  that  State.  The  Representatives  of  Pennsylvania  and  the 
District  of  Columbia  were  equally  exerting  all  their  energies  io 


204:  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

that  direction.  There  was  every  reason  that  the  session  should 
open  under  favorable  auspices.  This  reform  was  the  separation 
of  the  sale  of  liquor  from  lodge-rooms,  which  was  consummated 
at  the  building  and  occupancy  of  the  hall  on  Gay  Street.  G.  S. 
Wildey,  although  at  first  opposed  to  building  the  hall,  bowed  to 
the  popular  sentiment,  and  subsequently  gave  the  project  his  cor- 
dial and  powerful  support. 

The  business  of  the  session  was  at  once  entered  upon.  Rep. 
Lucas  gave  a  report  from  Maryland  for  the  year,  from  which 
it  appeared  that  there  were  five  subordinate  lodges  at  prosperous 
work,  numbering  372  contributing  members,  and  one  Encamp- 
ment, with  30  members.  337  candidates  had  been  admitted,  and 
the  revenue  of  the  lodges  had  reached  $2427.  This  flattering 
condition,  in  comparison  with  the  previous  state  of  this  jurisdic- 
tion, clearly  unfolded  the  material  progress  which  had  been  inau- 
gurated ;  and  is  explained  by  the  further  statement  that  the 
G.  Lodge  w^as  erecting  a  spacious  hall,  which  would  be  finished 
by  the  close  of  the  year.  The  increase  was  wonderful,  adding  to 
the  Order  more  members  than  it  had  previously  numbered,  whilst 
the  receipts  surpassed  those  of  any  former  year. 

This  may  be  regarded  as  the  first  popular  movement  toward 
Odd  Fellowship,  owing  to  its  greater  publicity,  which  was  brought 
about  by  the  accession  of  a  new  element,  and  the  ambitious  ven- 
ture of  building  a  hall  to  be  dedicated  to  its  wrork  and  principles, 
It  was  the  first  violent  motion  upon  the  surface,  which  broke  in 
wave  after  wave  upon  our  peaceful  shores,  bearing  upon  their 
crests  a  multitude,  to  rest  in  our  hospitable  tents  and  take  refuge 
in  our  lodges  as  a  newly  discovered  Arcadia ;  the  forerunner  of 
that  tidal  wave  which  has  borne  a  nation,  in  numbers,  to  sit  down 
with  us  in  fraternal  unity.  But  this  was  yet  in  the  future,  and 
many  struggles  had  to  be  made,  many  slanders  and  attacks  of 
ignorance  and  prejudice  to  be  encountered,  before  the  principles 
of  toleration  were  to  triumph  over  the  hatred  of  the  bigot  and  the 
narrowness  of  his  creed. 

The  Proxy  of  Massachusetts,  Bro.  Brice,  was  without  official 
information  from  that  jurisdiction,  in  which  the  Order  was  re- 
ported at  the  last  session  to  be  on  the  wane.  The  apathy  which 
had  caused  this  condition  was  on  the  increase,  and  the  prospect 
was  gloomy.  On  the  other  hand,  Rep.  Campbell,  of  Pennsylva- 
nia, gave  a  thrillingly  interesting  narrative  of  the  progress  of  the 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  205 

Order  in  his  jurisdiction,  indicating  that  it  was  taking  the  lead, 
which  it  has  never  lost,  as  the  Empire  jurisdiction  in  the  Order. 
He  astonished  the  G.  Lodge  with  the  report  of  33  subordinate  lodges 
at  work,  containing  2247  members,  full  of  ardor  and  ambition. 
The  revenue  had  reached  nearly  $13,000,  and  this  announcement 
must  have  deeply  moved  those  who  had  never  before  computed 
a  revenue  but  by  tens  and  hundreds.  The  increase  over  the  pre- 
vious year  was  nearly  500  in  membership,  and  over  $7000  in  rev- 
enue. He  also  reported  a  G.  Encampment  under  his  G.  Lodge, 
with  10  members,  and  one  Encampment  subordinate  to  the  G. 
Encampment,  containing  80  members,  witli  receipts  amounting 
to  $395.28 ;  also  4  Degree  Lodges.  After  these  facts  and  figures, 
the  dullest  could  see  \vhat  has  since  been  verified,  that  Pennsyl- 
vania would  overshadow  and  surpass  every  other  jurisdiction. 
The  District  of  Columbia  reported  an  increase  of  2  subordinates 
and  22  members,  with  an  aggregate  membership  of  83,  and 
of  revenue  about  $400.  These  figures  are  small,  but  one 
reason  for  that  lay  in  the  small  territory  to  which  they  were 
restricted.  The  reports  from  New  Jersey  and  Rhode  Island  were 
meagre,  and  of  no  importance ;  and  there  was  none  from  New 
York,  a  very  unfavorable  sign. 

The  reader  will  observe  that  Degree  Lodges  make  their 
iirst  appearance  at  this  session,  in  the  report  of  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Pennsylvania ;  their  history  and  uses  are  elsewhere  detailed  in 
the  chapter  on  the  Degrees  and  Encampments. 

An  addition  was  made  to  travelling  certificates,  in  requiring 
the  signature  of  the  holder  to  be  indorsed  in  the  proper  hand  of 
the  brother,  for  the  purpose  of  identification.  It  was  recom- 
mended to  G.  Lodges  to  keep  up  a  direct  correspondence  with 
their  proxies,  that  they  might  be  properly  instructed  in  the  wishes 
of  their  constituents.  These  were  both  salutary  provisions ;  but 
the  most  important  measure  adopted  was  the  declaration  or  expo- 
sition of  existing  constitutional  law  touching  the  powrers  of  the 
G.  S.,  in  the  following  words :  "  Resolved,  that  the  powers  of  the 
G.  S.  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  are  contained  in  the 
constitution  of  said  G.  Lodge."  Also,  "  Resolved,  that  all  the  pro- 
ceedings of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  relative  to  the  late 
Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  and  its  several  members,  be  affirmed, 
and  the  same  is  hereby  confirmed."  These  two  resolutions  stand- 
ing alone  as  they  do  upon  the  journal,  appear,  the  one  as  a  mere 


206  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

abstract  declaration,  and  the  other,  unaccompanied  with  explana- 
tion, conveys  no  intelligible  information.  The  compilers  of  the 
early  journal  have  appended  a  foot-note,  see  Journal  108,  which 
gives  a  clue  to  their  meaning,  but  the  information  is  vague  and 
unsatisfactory.  The  whole  matter  in  detail  will  be  found  in  the 
chapter  on  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania ;  a  brief  outline  is  all  that 
is  here  necessary. 

The  Order  wras  planted  in  Pennsylvania  by  the  institution  of 
Pennsylvania  Lodge,  JSTo.  1,  which  afterwards,  upon  the  forma- 
tion of  a  G.  Lodge  in  that  State,  became  its  first  subordinate.  .  But 
the  lodge  was  very  uneasy  under  the  new  arrangement,  and  from 
time  to  time  gave  indications,  by  its  conduct,  of  a  disposition  to- 
assume  something  of  its  former  independence.  The  crisis  soon 
came.  A  brother  by  the  name  of  Field  was  refused  benefits  by 
the  lodge,  and  appealed  to  the  G.  Lodge.  It  seems  that  Field 
was,  on  this  occasion,  expelled ;  the  G.  Lodge  required  its 
subordinate  to  reinstate  him  in  membership ;  but  instead  of  com- 
pliance, the  lodge  returned  to  the  G.  Lodge  its  order  of  reversal. 
Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  was  then  summoned  to  answer  the 
charge  of  insubordination,  and,  refusing  to  recede,  was  deprived 
of  its  charter  and  formally  dissolved.  But  the  subordinate  lodge 
refused  to  give  up  its  books  and  papers,  and  set  up  as  an  independent 
G.  Lodge,  under  its  original  charter  of  institution,  granted  in  1823. 
There  were  scandal,  confusion  and  litigation,  and  the  harmony  of  the 
whole  jurisdiction  was  threatened.  In  the  midst  of  this  conten- 
tion, G.  S.  Wildey  visited  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  was  received  with 
great  honor,  and  a  medal  was  presented  to  him.  His  sympathies 
were  appealed  to,  and  his  judgment  warped  by  the  statements 
made ;  and  on  his  return  to  Baltimore,  he  wrote  a  letter  to  the  lodge, 
setting  forth  in  strong  language  the  legality  of  its  course,  and  the 
unlawfulness  of  the  action  of  its  G.  Lodge.  He  also  sent  a  simi- 
lar communication  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  which  was 
received  by  that  body  with  astonishment ;  they  respectfully  re- 
turned it  to  the  writer  as  beyond  his  province,  and  as  an  inter- 
meddling which  they  would  not  permit.  A  committee  being 
sent  to  Baltimore,  presented  the  matter  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
U.  S.,  which  unanimously  supported  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylva- 
nia in  the  exercise  of  its  just  rights.  The  G.  Sire,  on  being  bet- 
ter informed,  joined  the  representatives  in  signing  such  documents 
as  put  the  question  at  rest  forever.  It  was  his  only  great  indis- 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  207 

cretion,  and  he  nobly  hastened  to  atone  for  his  fault.  The 
two  resolutions  we  have  cited  are  the  official  action  on  this  sub- 
ject, denning  the  powers  of  the  G.  S.,  and  approving  the  heroic 
conduct  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  in  this  masterly  asser- 
tion of  its  sovereign  authority.  We  can,  in  the  light  of  the  previ- 
ous explanation,  fully  comprehend  the  following  : 

Whereas,  a  constitution  and  by-laws  have  recently  appeared,, 
purporting  to  be  "  The  constitution  and  by-laws  of  the  G.  Lodge 
of  Pennsylvania,  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.,  established  by  the  authority 
of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.,  revised  and  adopted  at 
their  new  hall,  North  Fifth  Street,  Philadelphia,  February  23d, 
1830,"  which  constitution  and  by-laws  are  calculated  to  mislead, 
inasmuch  as  the  said  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  the  U.  S.  has  dissolved 
and  became  extinct  on  the  22d  day  of  February,  1825,  and  no 
charter  has  ever  been  granted  to  the  self-styled  G.  Lodge ;  there- 
fore, 

Resolved,  That  the  said  lodge,  claiming  to  be  established  by 
authority  above  stated,  is  spurious  and  unauthorized  by  any  com- 
petent jurisdiction. 

This  is  an  important  episode  in  the  history  of  the  G.  Lodge  of 
the  U.  S.;  important,  as  calculated  to  strain  to  its  utmost  tension 
the  federal  system,  and  evincing  its  ability  to  maintain  itself 
under  the  most  trying  ordeal.  It  was  the  deathblow  to  the  effort 
to  recede  to  the  petty  stand-point  of  the  local  system,  from  which 
it  had  emerged,  and  to  return  to  the  condition  of  independent 
aid  societies  and  convivial  clubs,  where  it  had  originated.  Strange 
that  these  facts  were  not  spread  upon  the  journal  of  that  session! 
The  correspondence  does  not  appear  in  the  letter-book  of  the  G. 
Sire,  and  but  for  the  care  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  would 
have  been  entirely  lost.  In  fact,  the  records  of  the  supreme  body 
at  that  day  were  so  meagre  and  unsatisfactory,  that  without  the 
assistance  of  the  State  journals,  it  would  be  impossible  to  get  at 
the  facts  with  accuracy. 

We  pass  to  the  experiment  which  was  entered  upon  at  the 
session  of  1828,  and  amended  in  1829,  viz:  the  Movable  Commit- 
tee, which  had  been  borrowed  from  the  Manchester  Unity,  under 
the  form  of  government  which  it  had  lately  adopted.  A  report 
was  introduced  by  the  G.  S.  as  "  the  very  able  and  elaborate  re- 
port of  the  Movable  Committee,"  detailing  its  operations  minutely 
in  visiting  the  G.  and  subordinate  lodges  in  Massachusetts,  New 


208  AMEEICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

York,  Pennsylvania  and  New  Jersey,  which  was  read  and  ordered 
to  be  filed  in  the  archives,  where  it  was  found  by  the  search  of 
the  compilers  of  the  journal,  and  was  printed  as  a  foot-note  to 
Journal,  109. 

This  was  the  first  and  only  report  of  the  committee.  Its  busi- 
ness wras  to  look  after  the  interests  of  the  Order  in  the  general 
jurisdiction,  to  give  aid  and  comfort,  and  to  keep  the  G.  Lodge 
properly  advised  of  every  matter  affecting  the  common  welfare. 
In  New  York  and  Massachusetts  there  was  abundant  field  for  the 
labors  of  such  a  committee ;  for  although  the  Order  in  the  former 
State  was  represented  as  prosperous,  the  facts,  so  far  as  they  can 
be  gathered,  were  otherwise.  That  G.  Lodge  barely  had  an  exist- 
ence ;  it  had  made  its  headquarters  first  at  New  York,  but  in 
1828  removed  them  to  Albany.  Such  was  the  irregularity  and 
confusion,  that  in  1829  no  less  than  three  brothers  claimed  to 
have  been  elected  to  the  office  of  G.  M.  Its  subordinates  were 
so  much  neglected  that  they  lost  heart,  and  all  the  lodges  located 
in  Albany,  being  numbers  three,  five  and  seven,  resigned  their 
charters,  and  united  in  one  lodge,  under  the  name  of  Union  Lodge, 
No.  8.  At  the  same  session,  1829,  Lodge  No.  2,  in  Duchess 
County,  also  surrendered  its  charter.  This  is  a  decided  contra- 
diction of  the  rose-colored  statements  made  by  the  Movable  Com- 
mittee. From  this  time  matters  grew  worse,  and  the  work  of 
destruction  went  on  until  nothing  was  left  of  the  original  Wildey 
organization.  The  same  was  true  in  the  case  of  Massachusetts, 
where  the  Order  had  gone  down  until  it  had  no  organized  exist- 
ence. The  G.  Lodge,  in  aid  of  the  well-meant  efforts  of  the  Mov- 
able Committee,  appointed  a  committee  to  act  jointly  in  the  case 
of  those  two  States,  with  plenary  power  to  do  all  things  necessary 
for  their  resuscitation. 

The  annual  reports,  to  the  end  of  the  year  1830.  were,  after 
all,  encouraging;  the  whole  number  of  subordinates  being  58,  and 
the  membership  numbering  more  than  3000. 

Two  special  sessions  were  held  in  1830 ;  the  one  of  the  26th 
of  September,  to  act  upon  the  application  of  Nathaniel  Estling, 
C.  Harkin,  J.  Brice,  J.  W.  Holt,  T.  L.  Bedford  and  J.  Gill,  for  a  char- 
ter for  Ohio  Lodge,  No.  1,  to  be  located  at  Cincinnati.  A  propo- 
sition, in  this  connection,  was  made  to  amend  the  constitution  in 
Article  X.,  so  as  to  allow  any  qualified  person  to  open  a  lodge. 
The  second  special  meeting  was  called  on  the  same  subject ;  the 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    THE   UNITED    STATES.  209 

-charter  was  granted,  and  Dep.  G.  Master  Paul  delegated  to  open 
the  lodge.  This  brings  the  narrative  to  the  close  of  1830.  Early 
in  1831,  on  the  20th  of  February,  a  special  session  was  again  con- 
vened, to  act  upon  an  application  for  a  lodge  at  New  Orleans, 
which  was  granted,  upon  the  petition  of  P.  D.  G.  M.  Joel  C. 
Davis,  P.  G.  Francis  C.  Davis,  and  brothers  Wm.  J.  Orr,  Joseph 
Price,  William  "Willis,  John  F.  Barnes,  William  Brown,  Joseph 
F.  Irish,  John  Malone  and  Daniel  Buckley;  the  lodge  to  be 
called  Louisiana  Lodge,  No.  1.  Two  days  afterwards  a  similar 
meeting  was  held,  to  act  upon  the  application  of  P.  G.'s  McAnnal, 
Scott,  McNeal,  Robinson  and  McFarlane  for  a  charter  for  a 
Grand  Lodge  of  Delaware,  to  be  located  at  Wilmington ;  the 
charter  was  accordingly  granted. 

The  reader,  on  the  perusal  of  the  proceedings  of  this  year, 
will  be  struck  with  the  system  which  the  legislation  of  the  body 
began  to  assume ;  the  machinery  was  found  to  be  in  good  work- 
ing order,  and  the  relative  positions  of  all  the  parties  to  constitu- 
tional law  was  being  recognized  and  protected.  It  was  the 
beginning  of  that  spirit  of  subordination  and  of  regard  for  vested 
rights  which  lias  since  been  the  bond  of  our  organic  union.  This 
respect  for  obligations  will  be  found  henceforth  to  grow  at  every 
step  of  the  history.  As  the  necessary  consequence,  the  one-man 
power  began  to  decline,  and  soon  became  obsolete.  The  Order 
in  its  infancy  was  nursed  into  vigor  and  preserved  by  the  devo- 
tion of  a  few  men ;  notably  of  one  great  man,  who  had  saved  it 
from  destruction  and  given  it  to  mankind.  These  men  were 
foremost  to  retire  and  leave  the  further  solution  of  the  problem 
to  other  and,  under  the  different  circumstances,  better  hands  and 
larger  intellects.  At  this  session  the  one-man  power  fell  before 
the  constitution,  and  no  one  bowed  lower  before  that  blow  than 
Wildey,  the  former  dictator.  That  generous  man  had  but  one 
idea,  the  diffusion  of  the  Order  and  its  principles ;  but  one  object 
in  life,  the  triumph  and  fame  of  the  nursling  born  to  him  on  the 
26th  of  April,  1819.  When  he  saw  that  the  parental  power  to 
help  was  departing,  and  that  his  darling  institution  was  about  to 
rise  above  his  authority,  some  pangs  of  nature,  with  which  all 
must  sympathize,  made  their  appearance,  but  the  trial  left  him  a 
better  and  nobler  man.  The  session  of  1830  was  the  beginning 
of  the  era  of  constitutional  government,  but  it  was  also  the  begin- 
ning of  that  self-denial  and  splendid  devotion  to  principle  on  the 
14 


210  AMEKlCAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

part  of  the  founder  which  seals  his  reputation  as  a  man  of  integ- 
rity. Before  that  time  he  was  an  organizer,  a  chief,  a  wonder- 
worker, but  henceforth  we  know  him  by  prouder  titles ;  as  the  first 
subject  under  the  new  government,  the  most  self-sacrificing  of 
all  that  bore  the  name  of  Odd  Fellow. 

The  next  annual  session  was  held  at  Odd  Fellows'  Hall, 
September  5,  1831.  This  wras  the  first  time  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
U.  S.  had  the  privilege  of  assembling  in  a  building  erected 
specially  for  the  Order,  and  formally  dedicated  to  its  exclusive 
use.  The  fact  that  it  was  being  erected  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md. 
was  announced  by  Rep.  Lucas  at  the  former  session,  and  its 
completion  and  consecration  with  imposing  ceremonies  on  the 
26th  of  April,  1831,  had  been  publicly  proclaimed  by  the  Balti- 
more press.  As  this  event  dated  an  epoch  of  revival  in  the  Order, 
an  actual  revolution  in  sentiment  and  action  toward  it  by  the 
public,  a  newr  birth  of  energy,  and  what  was  so  much  prized  by 
the  ancient  members,  respectability,  it  deserves  special  mention 
at  our  hands. 

Its  appearance  on  the  scene  was  a  landmark  superior  to  any 
established  before  that  time  in  the  annals  of  Odd  Fellowship. 
The  correspondence  of  the  fathers  is  full  of  statements  about  the 
growing  "respectability"  of  the  membership,  whether  the  refer- 
ence is  to  England  or  to  this  country.  The  great  difficulty  of 
the  elders  was  to  protect  the  lodges  from  disreputable  per- 
sons ;  the  class  from  whose  ranks  their  enlistments  were  made, 
trenched  so  closely  upon  the  very  poor,  that  a  constant  anxiety 
prevailed  lest  unworthy  candidates  should  intrude  upon  the 
worthy.  The  difficulty  was  increased  by  the  fact  that  the  road 
to  the  lodge  had  been  generally  through  the  public-house,  in 
which  so  many  worthless  people  were  sure  to  congregate,  that  it 
was  not  easy  to  separate  "  the  tares  from  the  wheat."  The  host 
had  a  mortgage  on  the  charter  and  a  pre-emption  claim  upon 
every  foot  upon  which  the  rites  were  performed ;  his  sign  and 
bar  had  drawn  a  line  between  them  and  thousands  of  sober  and 
substantial  men,  and  tainted  their  good  name  with  the  odor  of 
pipes  and  whiskey.  Those  who  became  members  obtained  no 
accession  of  character  as  citizens,  but  to  the  contrary  were  often 
on  that  account  marked  down  p.s  inferior  men.  The  G.  Lodge 
itself,  and  the  whole  Order  in  Maryland,  had  been  from  the  very 
first  lodgers  in  a  public-house  and  pensioners  upon  the  caprices 


THE    GKAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  211 

of  a  convivial  landlord.  The  whole  of  these  outward  circum- 
stances of  suspicion  and  moral  inferiority  had  passed  away.  The 
reality  of  the  change  was  shown  by  the  result,  in  a  manner  and 
to  a  degree  which  no  one  could  have  anticipated.  At  the  very 
idea  of  leaving  the  public-house,  the  community  reached  out  to 
meet  them  and  to  welcome  them  as  they  had  never  before  been 
welcomed. 

The  "  Maryland  Reform  "  was  now  an  event  of  history,  and 
the  bar  had  been  forever  divorced,  not  only  from  the  lodge-room, 
but  the  Order ;  the  movement  slowly  but  surely  obliterated  that 
ancient  landmark,  and  for  the  first  time  our  practices  tallied  with 
our  principles,  and  the  new,  and  we  hope  everlasting,  era  of 
moral  influence  and  power  took  its  beginning. 

Attended  by  such  favorable  auspices,  the  G.  Lodge  assembled ; 
present,  the  G.  Officers — Thomas  Wildey,  Thomas  Scotchburn, 
Augustus  Mathiot  and  William  Hall ;  Reps.  James  L.  Ridgely, 
of  Maryland  ;  William  J.  A.  Birkey,  of  Pennsylvania,  and  James 
Gettys,  of  the  District  of  Columbia ;  Proxies,  Charles  Brice,  of 
Massachusetts ;  Richard  Marley,  of  New  York,  and  John  Boyd,, 
of  Delaware. 

The  reader  will  here  see,  for  the  first  time,  a  name  which  has- 
not  only  been  wholly  identified  with  Odd  Fellowship,  but  which 
has  always  been  inseparably  associated  with  the  supreme  body,, 
under  every  vicissitude,  down  to  this  day.  We  refer  to  the  hon- 
ored and  aged  brother  who  for  so  many  years  has  been  the  G. 
Cor.  and  Rec.  Sec.  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  Rep.  Ridgely 
was  gathered  into  the  fold  in  July,  1829,  rapidly  passed  the  chairs,, 
and  having  entered  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.,  became  its  G.  Sec.  on 
the  16th  of  January,  1831.  He  was  immediately  elected  a  rep- 
resentative, and  took  his  seat  at  this  session.  He  had  formed  the 
acquaintance  of  Wildey,  and  though  dissimilar  in  many  traits,  each 
had  found  in  the  other  a  congenial  soul.  They  were  mutually 
attracted,  and  before  long  began  that  devotion  to  each  other  and 
to  the  work,  which  attended  the  founder  to  his  grave,  and  yet 
burns  in  the  heart  of  the  survivor.  This  intimacy  led  to  results 
which  neither  of  them  could  have  contemplated.  The  one  was- 
fresh  from  a  college  curriculum,  and  the  other  was  the  keeper  of 
a  public-house ;  the  one  was  a  professional  man,  the  other  a  lodge- 
maker  and  reformer  in  the  cause  of  benevolence ;  the  one  the 
founder  of  an  Order,  the  other  a  beginner  in  life.  One  could 


212  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

scarcely  dream  that  two  such  men  would  meet  and  clasp  hands ; 
that  the  younger  man  would  become  the  beloved  disciple  ;  that 
by  this  union  great  events  would  follow,  and  that 'these  two  would 
be  one  in  life,  and  by  nearly  fifty  years  of  mutual  labor  would 
forever  link  their  names  in  a  cause  of  world-wide  fame. 

The  business  began  with  the  report  of  the  movable  committee 
upon  certain  differences  between  the  body  and  its  G.  subordinates 
in  Massachusetts  and  New  York ;  these  arose  out  of  the  non-pay- 
ment to  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  assessments  made  upon  those  juris- 
dictions for  its  support.  Rep.  Brice,  of  Massachusetts,  reported 
in  that  State  4  subordinate  lodges  and  an  Encampment,  and  Rep. 
Marley,  of  New  York,  presented  the  report  of  his  G.  Lodge, 
claiming  20  P.  Grands  and  4  subordinate  lodges.  This  was  illu- 
sive in  both  instances,  and  could  not  deceive  any  one  conversant 
with  the  Order  in  those  sections ;  equally  so  was  the  report  of  the 
movable  committee,  made  the  year  before,  in  which  both  juris- 
dictions were  represented  as  prosperous,  when  it  was  far  other- 
wise. They  were  certainly  sadly  mistaken,  and  were,  no  doubt, 
led  into  the  delusion  by  a  sanguine  disposition,  which  took  no 
account  of  the  true  situation,  for  the  real  condition  of  things  was 
to  the  contrary.  The  G.  Lodge  of  New  York,  if  in  being, 
barely  survived,  and  the  G.  Lodge  of  Massachusetts  had  ceased 
to  exist. 

Rep.  Eirkey,  of  Pennsylvania,  made  a  splendid  report  of  pro- 
gress, from  which  it  appeared  that  his  G.  Lodge  contained  224 
P.  Grands ;  the  G.  Encampment,  of  16  members,  had  two  subordi- 
nate encampments,  with  32  contributing  members ;  the  subordi- 
nate lodges  were  38,  and  there  had  been  an  addition  of  7  lodges, 
one  subordinate  encampment  and  one  degree  lodge.  1282  per- 
sons had  been  initiated ;  there  were  21  honorary  members  and 
2753  who  contributed.  Four  lodges  had  failed  to  report,  and  yet 
the  amount  of  receipts  had  grown  to  the  round  sum  of  $15,822.42. 
No  report  came  from  Delaware ;  in  consequence  of  the  death  of 
one  member  and  the  absence  of  another,  there  was  no  quorum  for 
a  G.  Lodge.  By  reason  of  this  defunct  condition  of  the  G.  Lodge, 
Delaware  Lodge,  No.  1,  demanded  the  vacation  of  the  G.  Lodge 
charter,  and  the  return,  to  the  subordinate,  of  the  charter  under 
which  it  was  originally  instituted.  In  reply,  the  following  was 
adopted:  "Resolved,  1st.  That  the  G.  Lodge  of  Delaware  be 
directed  to  deliver  forthwith  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  IT.  S.  its 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  213 

G.  Charter,  the  same  being  forfeited  by  a  disability  to  work,  to 
wit :  the  want  of  five  P.  Grands.  2d.  That  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
State  of  Delaware  be  directed  to  return  to  Delaware  Lodge,  ~No. 
1,  the  charter  granted  by  this  G.  Lodge,  it  being  the  only  charter 
by  which  said  Delaware  Lodge,  No.  1,  can  legally  work ;  the  said 
Lodge,  No.  1,  being  amenable  only  to  this  Grand  Lodge.  3d. 
That  the  G.  Sire  return  the  charter  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Delaware 
so  soon  as  there  shall  be  an  application  received  from  five  legal 
P.  Grands  of  said  State  of  Delaware." 

Nothing  was  received  from  Friendly  Union  Lodge,  Providence, 
Ehode  Island.  No  report  was  made  from  Maryland,  but  in  the 
tabular  statement  is  shown  a  return  of  12  lodges,  789  initia- 
tions, one  suspension ;  contributing  members,  1500,  and  revenue, 
$9438.77 ;  thus  marking  an  increase  in  that  State,  over  the  last 
report,  of  452  initiates,  7  lodges,  791  members,  and  $7011  of  rev- 
enue. The  total  increase  of  the  Order  was,  of  initiates,  2166 ;  of 
membership,  1415 ;  of  subordinate  lodges,  11 ;  and  of  revenue, 
$10,737 ;  the  two  feeble  jurisdictions  not  reporting.  The  Mary- 
land gain  was  thus  far  in  excess  of  all  the  other  bodies  combined ; 
of  the  11  new  lodges  she  had  7  ;  of  the  2166  initiates  she  had  789 ; 
of  the  1415  increase  in  membership  she  had  791,  and  of  the 
$10,737.04  of  increase  in  revenue,  she  had  $7011.77.  We  make 
this  comparison  to  prove  that  we  have  not  overstated  the  impulse 
imparted  by  the  building  of  the  Odd  Fellows'  Hall,  and  the  grand 
celebration  of  the  26th  April,  1831. 

The  G.  Sire  presented  a  gratifying  report  of  the  increase  of  the 
Order  in  England,  in  numbers  and  "respectability."  It  was 
then  determined  to  forward,  in  reply,  a  copy  of  the  resolutions 
passed  May  1st,  1828,  respecting  the  working  signs  of  the  Order. 
This  referred  to  the  use  of  the  old  and  new  signs.  It  was  also 
"  resolved  that  a  G.  Treasurer  should  be  appointed."  This  seems 
to  have  been  so  construed  that  an  election  was  held,  and  P.  G. 
"William  Hall,  of  Maryland,  was  elected.  This  was  an  empty 
compliment  in  the  absence  of  a  treasury,  and  the  election  was 
treated  as  a  nullity.  The  following  were  then  adopted :  "  Ke- 
solved,  1st.  That  all  communications  to  this  G.  Lodge  be  ad- 
dressed through  the  medium  of  the  G.  Sec.,  and  not  the  G.  S.,  as 
heretofore.  2d.  That  each  State  G.  Lodge  furnish,  annually,  the 
name  of  the  street  and  number  of  the  house  wherein  its  respective 
subordinate  lodges  hold  their  meetings.  3d.  That  it  shall  be  the 


214  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

duty  of  the  G.  Sec.  to  furnish  every  State  G.  Lodge,  annually, 
with  the  name  of  the  street  and  the  number  of  the  house  wherein 
every  lodge  is  held,  acting  immediately  or  mediately  under  the 
jurisdiction  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S."  The  first  of  these 
resolves  was  an  open  and  direct  attack  upon  the  irresponsible  and 
unlimited  exerciso  of  power  by  the  executive  officer;  which  at 
first  was  necessary,  but  was  now  forbidden  by  law.  But  the  new 
authority  was  yet  young,  and  had  not  been  able  to  turn  the  atten- 
tion of  the  membership  sufficiently  to  the  fact  that  the  sole  power 
to  be  obeyed  was  the  constitution.  This  declaration  then  was 
necessary  as  an  assertion  of  sovereignty,  and  as  a  publication  of 
notice  that  all  the  business  was  now  to  be  conducted  through  the 
channels  made  by  the  law. 

The  other  resolutions  were  intended  to  furnish  a  directory  by 
which  the  subordinates  could  be  visited  ;  that  travelling  brothers 
might  be  able  to  find  and  take  cheer  wherever  their  business  or 
pleasure  might  lead  them.  This  in  some  places  was  of  the  very 
liighest  importance,  especially  where  the  Order  was  weak  and 
"but  little  known.  It  was  also  "Resolved,  That  the  present  G. 
Sire's  official  term  be  prolonged  until  the  ensuing  annual  meeting 
of  the  G.  Lodge."  This  was  an  exercise  of  power  of  doubtful 
constitutional  authority,  but  there  was  no  objection,  and  it  was 
agreed  to  and  carried  into  effect  nem.  con.  At  this  stage  Rep. 
Ridgely  moved  two  resolutions  introducing  fundamental  consti- 
tutional provisions.  First,  that  the  Royal  Purple  degree  should 
"be  a  necessary  qualification  for  representatives  in  the  G.  Lodge 
of  the  U.  S.;  secondly,  a  declaration  that  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
TJ.  S.  was  the  only  depository  for  granting  charters  to  open 
lodges  and  encampments  in  foreign  States,  and  in  the  districts  or 
territories  in  America.  They  were  adopted,  and  thus  another 
Arital  change  was  made  by  the  vote  of  a  mere  majority,  a  juris- 
dictional  question  was  settled  and  a  new  qualification  required  of 
representatives. 

A  committee  was  appointed  to  remodel  the  funeral  ceremony. 
This  has  always  been  a  fruitful  source  of  vexation ;  the  difficulty 
was  to  make  the  form  sufficiently  liberal  and  free  from  sectar- 
ianism. The  present  is  a  compromise  between  the  last  and  its 
inn  nodi  ate  predecessor,  with  the  provision  that  either  may  be 
used  or  none.  The  blind  prejudices  of  many  of  the  clergy  have 
led  them  to  deny  our  right  to  any  such  ritual.  Their  objection 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  215 

takes  the  form  of  a  protest  against  the  form  of  prayer  adopted, 
and  many  have  gone  so  far  as  to  claim  a  burial  service  as  a  re- 
ligious ceremony  in  which  the  laity,  excepting  in  cases  of  necessity, 
cannot  decently  officiate.  There  are  instances  of  rudeness,  and 
even  of  insult,  to  the  brotherhood  on  these  solemn  occasions,  by 
certain  bigots  who  have  been  associated  in  the  services.  That 
we  have  never  struck  back  and  put  such  intolerance  to  shame,  is 
the  best  comment  upon  our  professions  of  toleration.  But  we 
have  other  and  most  honorable  reasons  for  our  sufferance,  when 
wre  behold  that  great  array  of  Gospel  ministers  \vho  gladly  join 
us  and  unite  their  prayers  with  ours  at  the  grave.  These  so  fully 
vindicate  the  cause  of 'religion  from  ignorance  and  bigotry,  that 
we  find  it  easy  to  excuse  their  narrow  and  uncharitable  brethren. 
When  it  is  considered  that  we  are  not  a  religious  body,  and 
have  no  form  of  religious  service ;  that  prayer  for  the  blessings  of 
heaven  is  as  proper  for  the  "  poor  publican  "  as  for  the  "  haughty 
pharisee";  and  that  our  prayers  are  made  as  individual  persons 
asking  a  boon  from  the  Common  Father ;  we  are  amazed  to  find 
that  we  are  charged  with  trenching  on  ground  dedicated  to  the 
Church.  Such  persons  would  reject  that  divine  petition,  "the 
Lord's  Prayer,"  and  refuse  to  use  the  form  provided  by  inspira- 
tion itself.  When  the  Church  shall  realize  the  fact  that  burial 
services  are  not  sectarian ;  that  tears  and  sorrow  for  the  loved 
are  a  divine  ceremony  written  in  the  hearts  of  mankind :  that 
such  an  occasion  is  not  a  sacrament,  but  a  tribute ;  not  a  religious 
offering,  but  a  wail  of  nature  for  the  departed;  not  so  much  an' 
act  of  worship  as  a  mournful  elegy  of  regret,  then  our  true 
position  on  this  point  will  be  fully  comprehended.  We  do  not 
in  our  fraternal  offices  refuse  the  presence  of  the  minister  of 
religion ;  we  respect  his  ritual,  and  join  with  devotion  in  what- 
ever he  may  do  ;  at  any  grave,  much  more  at  that  of  a  brother  of 
the  Order,  Odd  Fellowship  requires  us  to  unite  with  all  good 
men,  and  especially  with  such  as  have  been  set  apart  for  such 
services,  in  whatever  may  improve  the  living  and  do  honor  to 
the  dead.  What  difference  does  it  make  as  to  which  is  the  leader 
in  the  rite,  the  man  in  orders  or  the  man  of  business,  if  decorum 
be  observed  ?  But  we  are  as  usual  liberal  on  this  point :  our 
ceremonies  are  never  intended  as  a  substitute  for  the  rites  of 
others,  and  in  no  case  do  we  insist  upon  them  ;  it  is  our  duty 
"  to  l)ury  fhe  dead"  and  when  we  have  tendered  our  offices,  our 
duty  is  discharged. 


216  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

But  to  return  to  the  record.  The  English  magazine  was 
encouraged  by  a  subscription  for  a  sufficient  number  of  copies  to 
distribute  among  the  G.  Lodges.  There  never  was  a  class  of 
men  more  ardently  desirous  of  diffusing  information  than  the 
Odd  Fellows  of  the  United  States.  The  Order  has  a  literary 
history  of  which  it  may  well  be  proud.  The  early  laborers  were 
found  constantly  aiming  to  disseminate  intelligence  on  every 
point  of  general  interest,  and  their  successors  have  inherited  this 
quality.  It  would  require  a  volume  to  narrate  the  means  devised 
for  the  diffusion  of  our  principles  by  means  of  the  press.  From, 
the  "  Covenant,"  originally  published  at  Baltimore  in  1836,  down 
to  the  present  periodicals,  which  supply  til  the  jurisdictions,  the 
publications  of  the  Order  would  fill  a  respectable  catalogue. 
Among  the  other  public  services  rendered  by  Odd  Fellowship,  the 
cultivation  of  letters  will  be  found  to  fill  an  honorable  place ;  one 
without  a  rival  in  this  or  any  other  country  in  any  similar  insti- 
tution. 

The  next  business  in  order  was  an  application  from  P.  Grands 
Nathaniel  Estling,  J.  G.  Joseph,  Richard  G.  Cheavens,  Jacob  AV. 
Holt,  and  Jas.  W.  Brice,  praying  for  a  charter  to  open  a  G.  Lodge 
in  Cincinnati,  Ohio,  which  was  granted  on  the  condition  that  the 
G.  Sec.  was  satisfied  of  their  legal  competency.  This  charter 
was  issued  and  that  body  was  instituted  on  January  28th,  1832. 
The  following  G.  Officers  were  installed  :  David  T.  Stewart,  G.  M.; 
Samuel  Peel,  D.  G.  M.;  Hiram  Marks,  G.  W.;  Samuel  Cobb, 
G.  Sec.,  and  William  W.  West,  G.  Treas.  A  petition  was  also 
received  from  brothers  John  W.  Peterson,  J.  S.  Hedges,  Zena& 
B.  Glazier,  James  S.  White,  Jacob  M.  Garretson,  William  Ford, 
and  Jesse  Starple,  praying  for  a  charter  for  a  lodge  to  be  located 
at  Wilmington,  Delaware,  and  to  be  hailed  by  the  title  of  Jefferson 
Lodge,  No.  2,  which  was  granted.  Zenas  B.  Glazier  here  men- 
tioned was  afterwards  a  G.  Sire.  A  charter  was  also  granted  to 
Patriarchs  James  L.  Kidgely  and  others  to  open  a  G.  Encamp- 
ment in  Baltimore,  Maryland.  As  will  elsewhere  appear,  the  G. 
Lodge  of  Md.  in  a  solemn  resolution  resigned  its  authority  over 
the  subordinate  encampments  in  the  State  to  the  new  G.  body. 
This  G.  Encampment,  the  first  in  the  world,  was  duly  instituted 
in  the  city  of  Baltimore  on  the  31st  of  December  following,. 
when  the  subjoined  officers  were  installed :  Thomas  Wildey,  G. 
Patriarch  ;  Samuel  Lucas,  G.  High  Priest ;  John  II.  O'Donovan, 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  217 

G.  Warden;  McClintock  Young,  G.  Scribe;  John  Boyd,  G. 
Treasurer;  John  N.  Murphy,  G.  Janitor,  and  "William  Hall, 
Assistant  G.  Janitor. 

This  action  gave  form  and  legality  to  the  patriarchal  degree 
lodges,  and  was  the  beginning  of  that  division  of  the  Order  into 
two  branches  which  sundered  its  unity  in  the  States.  Hereto- 
fore, as  has  been  elsewhere  explained,  the  encampments  were 
adjuncts  of  State  G.  Lodges  for  conferring  the  so-called  "  sublime 
degrees/'  This  was  their  origin  in  Maryland,  and  the  same  idea- 
prevailed  also  in  the  more  complex  system  formed  in  Penn- 
sylvania. But  after  a  short  period  the  possessors  of  these  degrees 
began  to  aspire  to  a  separate  independence,  and  in  every  quarter 
met  with  sympathy  and  support.  The  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S. 
was  first  passive,  then  active,  in  their  encouragement,  and  here 
we  find  at  last  the  creation  of  a  co-equal  department  with  that 
represented  by  fifth  degree  members  and  P.  G.'s,  without  even 
the  forms  of  a  discussion  or  a  division  on  the  vote.  This  was  not 
singular,  as  the  representatives  were  the  parties  most  interested, 
and  it  was  not  yet  the  period  when  the  body  began  to  take 
account  of  its  own  organization  and  to  criticise  its  different  parts. 
The  next  step  was  therefore  easy.  It  was  already  necessary  for 
a  G.  representative  to  have  received  the  Royal  Purple  Degree, 
and  therefore  when  it  was  proposed  to  admit  the  G.  Encamp- 
ments to  a  separate  representation,  it  was  immediately  allowed. 
In  those  days  when  representatives  were  few,  this  seemed  to  be 
sound  policy ;  now  when  they  are  many,  some  inconvenience  ha& 
arisen  from  their  rapid  increase,  which  alters  the  question. 

At  the  close  of  the  session,  Rep.  Birkey,  of  Pennsylvania,  on 
behalf  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  that  State,  presented  to  P.  G.  John 
Boyd,  its  late  Proxy,  a  beautiful  medal.  The  journal  says  that 
it  was  prefaced  by  an  able  and  eloquent  address  by  Rep.  Birkey, 
which  w^as  highly  complimentary  to  the  subject  of  this  agreeable 
episode.  The  G.  Lodge  then  adjourned. 

An  adjourned  session  took  place  March  5th,  1832,  when  a 
charter  was  granted  to  Wildey  Encampment,  No.  1,  at  New 
Orleans,  upon  the  application  of  brothers  Joel  C.  Davis,  Francis 
C.  Davis,  T.  Lossing,  William  Colliston,  Thomas  Yernon,  Mel- 
ville Grossman,  A.  W.  Scates  and  D.  Siddle.  A  charter  was 
also  granted  to  P.  G.'s  Joel  C.  Davis,  Francis  C.  Davis,  Melville 
Grossman,  T.  Lossing  and  A.  W.  Scates  for  a  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
State  of  Louisiana. 


218  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  eighth  annual  communication  convened  Monday  the  3d 
of  September,  1832,  in  the  Odd  Fellows'  Hall  in  Baltimore. 
Present,  Thomas  Wildey,  G.  S.;  William  Hall,  D.  G.  S.  pro  tern.; 
Samuel  Pry  or,  G.  Sec.  pro  tern.,  and  Robert  Gott,  G.  G.;  Reps. 
George  Keyser,  of  Maryland,  and  Howell  Hopkins,  of  Penn- 
sylvania, and  Proxies  Charles  Brice,  of  Massachusetts,  Richard 
Marley,  of  New  York,  and  John  Brannan,  of  the  District  of 
Columbia.  It  is  on  the  minutes  that  the  credentials  of  the 
members  were  examined  and  found  correct.  This  could  scarcely 
be  true  of  those  accredited  to  Massachusetts  and  New  York,  for, 
as  before  stated,  the  Order  in  those  States  was  almost,  if  not 
entirely  defunct.  Massachusetts  by  courtesy  continued  in  this 
"way  to  have  a  voice  at  the  next  session,  but  has  no  more  mention 
until  after  the  revival  in  that  State  in  1842.  But  New  York 
"was  apparently  present  by  proxy  every  year  until  1834,  when  an 
elected  representative  was  in  attendance.  A  communication 
was  received  from  the  G.  Sec.  of  Ohio,  enclosing  a  petition 
from  Patriarchs  William  West,  David  T.  Stewart,  P.  Fuel,  and 
brothers  Samuel  Cobb,  A.  A.  Pruden,  Hiram  Marks  and  Samuel 
Peel,  for  a  charter  for  Wildey  Encampment,  No.  1,  to  be  located 
at  Cincinnati,  Ohio  ;  which  wras  granted.  No  reports  from  the 
jurisdictions  were  presented,  none  having  been  forwarded.  A 
resolution  to  proceed  to  the  election  of  G.  S.  was  laid  on  the  table ; 
the  resolution  was  afterwards  taken  up,  and  after  an  animated 
debate,  was  decided  in  the  negative. 

The  G.  Sec.  stated  that  by  order  of  the  G.  S.  he  had  issued  a 
circular  to  the  State  G.  Lodges,  informing  them  that  in  conse- 
quence of  the  prevalence  of  Asiatic  cholera,  the  G.  Lodge  would 
meet  in  annual  session  pro  forma  only,  and  adjourn  to  meet  at  a 
more  suitable  time.  It  was  then  resolved  that  the  G.  Officers 
should  hold  over  in  the  interval,  and  that  the  adjourned  session 
should  be  held  on  the  first  Monday  in  March,  1833.  Rep.  Hop- 
kins, of  Pennsylvania,  dissented,  and  filed  his  protest,  as  follows: 

"  I,  the  Representative  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  to 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  IT.  S.  of  the  Independent  Order  of 
Odd  Fellows,  do  solemnly  protest  against  the  proceedings  of  the 
G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  in  postponing  the  election  of  G.  S.,  at  this 
time ;  because  it  is  a  violation  of  the  constitution  of  this  G.  Lodge, 
which  declares  that  a  G.  S.  shall  be  elected  one  year  before  tak- 
ing upon  himself  the  duties  of  his  office ;  and  if  not  elected  now. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  219 

there  vail  be  no  G.  S.  after  the  first  Monday  in  September,  1833." 
The  G.  Lodge  then  adjourned  until  March  4th,  after  thanking 
Samuel  Pryor,  the  G.  Sec.  pro  tern.,  for  the  able  and  obliging 
manner  in  which  he  had  discharged  his  duty. 

The  adjourned  session  met  at  Baltimore  on  March  4th,  1833. 
Present  the  following  members :  Thomas  Wildey,  G.  S.;  Thomas 
'Scotchburn,  D.  G.  S.;  Augustus  Mathiot,  G.  Sec.,  and  Thomas 
Morse,  G.  G.  pro  tern.;  Reps.  George  Keyser,  of  Maryland,  and 
James  Gettys,  of  the  District  of  Columbia ;  Proxies  James  L. 
Ridgely,  of  Ohio,  and  Robert  Neilson,  of  Louisiana,  the  latter 
being  deputized  to  act  by  the  real  Proxy,  Samuel  Lucas.  Neil- 
soii  wras  also  appointed  by  the  G.  Lodge  Proxy  for  New  York, 
and  II.  S.  Sanderson,  Proxy  for  Massachusetts,  and  took  their  seats. 
The  curious  exercise  of  authority  by  a  Proxy  in  the  appointment 
of  a  Proxy,  was  matched  by  the  entirely  unauthorized  appoint- 
ment of  Proxies  by  the  G.  Lodge ;  the  non-existence  of  G.  Lodges 
in  the  latter  case  seeming  to  make  no  impression  upon  the  body. 
The  reports  of  the  subordinates  and  State  G.  Lodges  were  made 
and  put  on  file.  The  G.  S.  made  a  detailed  report  of  the  work 
done  in  the  recess.  He  opened  his  report  by  stating  that  by  rea- 
son of  press  of  business  he  had  not  been  able  to  visit  New  York 
and  Massachusetts,  to  settle  the  differences  existing  between  those 
jurisdictions  and  the  G.  Lodge,  but  had  communicated  with  them 
on  the  subject  by  letter.  For  this  document  see  Journal  122, 
3,  4  and  5.  The  record  here  says :  "  The  Rep.  from  Pennsylva- 
nia not  having  arrived,  but  being  hourly  expected,  the  G.  Lodge 
adjourned  to  meet  at  half-past  seven  o'clock  this  evening." 

The  G.  Lodge  met  accordingly  in  the  evening.  Rep.  Ridgely, 
of  Ohio,  produced  a  newspaper  containing  a  charge,  said  to  have 
been  copied  from  a  Pennsylvania  paper,  namely  :  "  That  Thomas 
"Wikley,  G.  Sire  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  had 
absconded  with  the  funds  of  the  Order."  A  committee  was  im- 
mediately appointed  to  take  the  matter  into  consideration.  Rep. 
Ridgely  made  a  report  which,  after  a  very  scathing  preamble, 
branding  the  slanderer  with  deserved  infamy,  concluded  as  fol- 
lows : 

"Resolved,  That  the  charges  against  Thomas  Wildey,  G.  Sire 
of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  of  having  absconded 
with  the  funds  of  the  Order,  is  a  base,  malignant  and  unblushing 
slander,  and  justly  excites  our  regret  for  the  degradation  of  human 
nature,  and  our  contempt  for  its  authors. 


220  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

"Resolved^  As  the  unanimous  wish  and  desire  of  this  G.  Lodge,, 
that  Thomas  Wildey,  G.  Sire,  institute  legal  prosecution  against 
its  authors  and  promulgators. 

"Resolved,  That  this  G.  Lodge  will  sustain  and  support  our 
G.  Sire  in  all  legal  prosecutions  which  he  may  institute  against 
the  originators  or  propagators  of  the  said  slander." 

This  was  one  of  the  scandalous  efforts  made  to  prejudice  the 
Order,  by  striking  down  its  leader ;  similar  attempts  were  made 
to  obtain,  notoriety,  but  all  died  where  they  were  born,  with  the 
malignant  enemies  who  could  find  no  other  way  in  which  to 
exhibit  their  hostility  to  the  aspiring  organization.  In  this  case 
the  prompt  action  of  the  G.  Lodge  was  met  by  ample  apologies,, 
and  a  recantation  of  the  article  on  the  part  of  the  editor  of  the 
Pennsylvania  Telegraph,  published  at  Harrisburg,  who  also 
revealed  tne  name  of  the  author  of  the  falsehood.  The  author 
wras  found,  on  inquiry,  to  be  as  worthless  in  a  pecuniary  sense  as 
he  had  shown  himself  to  be  as  a  man ;  so  that  the  vindication 
being  complete,  no  process  was  issued  against  him.  The  assault 
was  inspired  by  the  anti-Masonic  party,  which  at  this  time  was 
"  moving  heaven  and  earth  "  against  secret  societies.  No  further 
business  was  transacted  ;  but  an  invitation  was  accepted  to  visit 
the  subordinate  lodges  in  Baltimore,  in  full  regalia,  which  was 
accordingly  done. 

The  G.  Lodge  having  adjourned  to  the  next  day,  March  5, 
met  at  9  o'clock  A.  M.  Reps.  Keyser,  Ridgely  and  Gettys,  from  a 
committee  to  report  amendments  to  the  constitution,  reported  these 
amendments:  First,  changing  the  meeting  of  the  annual  session 
from  the  first  Monday  in  September  to  the  first  Monday  in  Feb- 
ruary ;  secondly,  in  place  of  the  provision  that  the  G.  Lodge 
shall  meet  at  present  in  Baltimore,  that  it  shall  meet  at  such 
place  as  the  G.  Lodge  shall  from  time  to  time  determine; 
thirdly,  that  the  G.  S.  must  be  a  P.  G.  M.,  and  possessed  of  the 
Royal  Purple  Degree,  and  must  be  elected  at  the  annual  meeting 
by  a  majority  of  the  whole  number  present,  by  ballot ;  and  that 
he  could  hold  no  other  elective  office ;  fourthly,  provision  wras 
made  in  the  absence  of  a  G.  Encampment  for  the  institution  of 
subordinate  encampments  directly  by  the  G.  Lodge  itself.  The 
record  is  not  clear  on  the  subject,  but  as  far  as  we  can  learn  all 
the  amendments  were  adopted.  A  charter  was  authorized  for 
Boone  Lodge,  No.  1,  at  Louisville,  Kentucky,  upon  the  petition 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  221 

of  Bros.  X.  Estliug,  S.  Lyoii,  S.  Waters,  T.  II.  Bruce,  G.  G. 
Wright,  J.  Barclay,  J.  J.  Roach  and  T.  Mayberry.  The  G. 
Lodge  then  on  motion  returned  the  charter  of  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Delaware  to  certain  P.  G.'s  whose  names  do  not  appear  on  the 
journal. 

A  funeral  ceremony,  that  interminable  subject  in  later 
legislation,  was  brought  up,  and  an  effort  was  made  to  adopt 
a  form  used  without  authority  in  one  of  the  States,  but  the 
attempt  was  a  failure.  Rep.  Neilson,  not  discouraged,  introduced 
the  ceremony  into  Maryland,  where  it  was  used  under  State 
authority.  G.  Sec.  Ridgely  was  the  author  of  the  first,  and  one 
of  the  last  of  the  several  forms  of  Funeral  Service  adopted  by  the 
Supreme  Body,  yet  he  has  for  many  years  been  opposed  to  these 
movements,  for  the  reason  that  in  such  solemn  hours  the  family 
usually  prefers  its  church  and  clergy;  and  for  the  additional 
reason,  that  our  broad  and  tolerant  principles  render  it  extremely 
difficult  to  frame  anything  sufficiently  general  and  free  from 
objection,  yet  specially  meeting  all  the  wants  of  such  an  exigency. 
But  he  firmly  maintains  the  right  to  the  use  of  a  funeral  service 
on  the  part  of  the  Order.  The  G.  Lodge  then  adjourned  to  the 
evening,  and  again  to  the  next  morning,  and  then  again  to  the 
evening  of  that  day,  doing  no  business.  On  the  last  occasion, 
March  the  6th,  the  minute  is  as  follows : 

"  The  G.  Lodge  met  pursuant  to  adjournment ;  but  no  Repre- 
sentative from  Pennsylvania  appearing,  on  motion,  it  was  resolved 
that  in  consequence  of  the  continued  disappointment  in  the  non- 
arrival  of  the  Rep.  of  Pennsylvania,  this  G.  Lodge,  ever  anxious 
to  consult  the  wishes  of  so  great  a  body  as  works  under  the  juris- 
diction of  that  G.  Lodge,  deem  it  proper  to  adjourn  until  Monday, 
the  18th  inst.,  at  ten  o'clock  A.  M.,  unless  the  Rep.  from  Penn- 
sylvania should  sooner  arrive ;  in  which  case  the  G.  Sire  lias  the 
power  to  convene  the  G.  Lodge." 

This  is  proof  that  the  good- will  and  hearty  co-operation  of  that 
great  State  had  become  indispensably  necessary  to  give  character 
to  the  proceedings.  Her  numbers,  wealth  and  efficiency  were 
aided  by  the  strong  men  sent  as  representatives,  and  no  measure 
of  importance  was  now  adopted  without  the  counsel  of  that  pow- 
erful constituent.  These  repeated  adjournments  and  the  final 
refusal  to  continue  in  session  in  the  absence  of  Pennsylvania,  were 
a  graceful  recognition  of  the  power  and  dignity  of  that  jurisdic- 
tion. 


222  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  G.  Lodge  convened  on  March  18,  1833,  pursuant  to 
adjournment.  Present :  Thomas  Wildey,  G.  S.,  Thomas  Scotch- 
burn,  D.  G.  S.,  Augustus  Mathiot,  G.  Sec.,  and  Thomas  Morse, 
G.  G.pro  tern.;  Reps.  George  Keyser  of  Maryland,  and  Howell 
Hopkins  of  Pennsylvania ;  Proxies  Henry  S.  Sanderson  of  Massa- 
chusetts, John  Pearce  of  New  York,  John  Brannan  of  the 
District  of  Columbia,  James  L.  Ridgely  of  Ohio,  and  Robert- 
Neilson  of  Louisiana.  The  G.  Lodge  having  been  formally 
opened,  on  motion  of  Rep.  Hopkins,  it  was  resolved  that  when 
the  credentials  of  a  G.  Representative  were  presented,  his  certifi- 
cate should  go  to  a  committee,  wrho  should  examine  into  its 
authenticity  and  also  into  the  qualifications  of  the  brother.  A 
committee  was  thereupon  appointed,  who  reported  that  Proxy 
Rep.  Pearce  of  New  York  was  entitled  to  his  seat ;  afterwards 
the  proxies  from  Ohio  and  Louisiana  were  also  admitted.  The 
following  was  then  adopted :  "  Resolved,  that  a  committee  be 
appointed  to  take  into  consideration  the  constitution  of  the  G. 
Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  of  the  I.  O.  of  O.  F.,  and  report  what  altera- 
tions or  amendments,  if  any,  are  necessary ;  and  that  the  said 
committee  be  instructed  to  ascertain  the  means  necessary  to 
establish  a  uniform  system  of  working  in  the  several  State  G. 
Lodges,  and  their  subordinate  lodges  throughout  the  United 
States."  The  committee  appointed  consisted  of  Reps.  Keyser, 
Hopkins  and  Brannan.  This  resolution  was  important,  as 
its  labors  resulted  in  the  adoption  of  an  amended  constitution  on 
the  4th  of  September  following ;  the  latter  clause,  with  some 
changes  in  the  personnel  of  the  committee,  led  to  the  adoption  of 
what  is  known  as  the  revision  of  1835. 

In  conformity  with  instructions  from  his  State,  Rep.  Hopkins 
of  Pennsylvania  offered  the  following,  which  was  sent  to  the 
committee  just  appointed :  "  Resolved,  that  the  representation 
in  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  be  apportioned  with  reference  to  the 
number  of  members  working  under  each  State  G.  Lodge ;  allow- 
ing one  representative  for  each  State  G.  Lodge  containing  one 
thousand  or  less  members,  and  one  additional  representative 
for  every  additional  thousand"  This  proposition  in  its  last 
clause  was  very  objectionable,  and,  if  adopted,  would  have  made 
the  G.  Lodge  the  most  unwieldy  of  bodies.  As  it  was,  the  first 
clause  fixing  the  apportionment  for  one  representative,  and  the 
amendment  which  gives  the  second  representative  to  jurisdictions 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  223 

having  more  than  one  thousand  members,  became  part  of  the 
constitution  of  1833,  and  remains  unchanged  to  this  day.  See 
Article  10,  constitution  of  1833,  and  Article  9,  Section  2,  of  con- 
stitution of  1854 ;  Journal  150  and  2375  respectively. 

Rep.  Keyser  offered  a  resolution  to  have  the  O.  B.  K  of  the 
first  degree  so  altered  as  to  dispense  with  the  last  clause ;  which 
was  referred  to  the  same  committee.  The  G.  Lodge  then  pro- 
ceeded to  the  nomination  of  G.  Officers,  when  the  following  were 
named  and  elected:  G.  S.,  P.  G.  M.  Gettys,  of  the  District  of 
Columbia;  G.  Sec.,  Samuel  Pryor,  P.  G.  M.  of  Penn.;  G.  Treas., 
John  Brannan,  P.  G.  of  Md  ;  G.  G.,  Thomas  Morse,  P.  G.  of  Md. 
Keps.  Kidgely,  Hopkins  and  Pearce  were  appointed  a  committee 
to  inform  P.  G.  M.  Gettys  of  his  election,  and  to  request  his  pre- 
sence in  the  G.  Lodge  on  the  next  day,  at  7i  o'clock  P.  M.  The 
newly  elected  chief  officer  appointed  Robert  Xeilson,  of  Md.,  D. 
G.  S.  At  the  hour  designated,  the  G.  Lodge  assembled.  There 
being  no  new  business  the  lodge  adjourned,  to  meet  in  Philadel- 
phia on  the  7th  day  of  June  ensuing  Appended  to  the  minutes 
is  a  statement,  without  signature,  which  shows  $501.64  due  to  the 
G.  Lodge  by  the  several  G.  and  subordinate  lodges. 

It  is  evident  that  Massachusetts  and  New  York,  which  had 
failed  to  report,  were  about  to  succumb  to  the  ill-fortune  which 
still  pursued  them.  The  proceedings  indicate  one  thing  very 
plainly,  that  the  right  of  G.  Lodges  to  instruct  their  representa- 
tives was  fully  claimed  and  exercised. 

A  new  G.  Sire  was  elected  who  had  no  prestige  but  that 
which  attached  to  the  office  itself ;  the  Order,  by  this  election,  had 
assumed  to  stand  alone ;  the  individual  was  merged  into  the  asso- 
ciation ;  separate,  and  even  joint  efforts  were  now  to  be  super- 
seded by  the  magic  power  of  a  corporate  name  and  the  potent 
authority  of  a  vast  confederation.  The  great  leader  was  about 
to  lay  down  the  sovereignty  which  had  its  official  and  personal 
existence  in  him  alone.  The  past  was  glorious,  but  the  present 
was  not  less  so ;  for  the  reign  of  law  and  order  was  commencing, 
when  many  men,  organized  and  welded  into  one,  should  wield  an 
influence  to  which  even  that  of  Wildey  was  child's  play. 

The  organization  was  completed,  and  the  organizer  retired ; 
the  machinery  was  cunningly  contrived  and  in  motion,  but  the 
power  to  drive  it  was  not  in  the  inventor,  but  in  mightier  forces, 
harnessed  for  the  work.  The  glamour  of  a  magnetic  soul,  which 


224  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

had  kindled  a  flame  of  benevolence  never  to  be  quenched,  had 
done  its  office,  but  a  consecrated  throng  had  set  that  flame  upon 
a  golden  candlestick  in  the  temple  of  Fraternity. 

The  adjournment  of  the  G.  Lodge  was  to  meet  in  Philadel- 
phia ;  but  in  the  interval  a  special  meeting  was  held  on  May  the 
4th,  at  Baltimore,  for  the  purpose  of  acting  on  a  petition  to  char- 
ter Virginia  Lodge,  No.  1,  at  Harper's  Ferry,  by  brothers  James 
Crawford,  L.  W.  Bowman,  William  Compton,  Seth  Pollard  and 
"William  Bailey.  This  application  was  granted,  and  the  special 
session  closed. 

The  contemplated  adjourned  session,  at  Philadelphia,  took 
place  on  June  7th,  1833.  Present,  Thomas  Wildey,  G.  S.;  Thos. 
Small,  D.  G.  S.  pro  tern.;  Augustus  Mathiot,  G.  Sec.;  Reps.  Geo. 
Keyser,  of  Maryland  ;  Howell  Hopkins,  of  Pennsylvania ;  James 
Getty  s,  of  the  District  of  Columbia  ;  and  Proxies  John  Bran  nan, 
of  Massachusetts  ;  John  Pearce,  of  New  York  ;  James  L.  liidgely, 
of  Ohio,  and  Eobert  Neilson,  of  Louisiana.  Brother  H.  S.  San- 
derson, Proxy  of  Massachusetts,  was  allowed  to  name  P.  G. 
Brannan  as  his  substitute,  and  the  latter  acted  as  proxy  for  that 
State.  The  G.  Lodge  being  duly  organized,  all  Odd  Fellows, 
members  of  G.  Lodges  and  in  possession  of  the  Tloyal  Purple 
Degree,  when  vouched  for  by  their  representatives,  were  admitted 
to  witness  the  proceedings.  The  important  committee  on  amend- 
ments to  the  constitution  and  on  the  secret  work,  was  enlarged 
by  the  addition  of  two  members,  Eeps.  Ridgely  and  Pearce.  The 
following  preamble  and  resolutions  were  then  submitted  and  laid 
upon  the  table : 

Whereas,  The  untiring  zeal,  devoted  labor,  and  cheering  suc- 
cess of  P.  G.  Sire  Thomas  Wildey,  in  the  business  of  Odd  Fellow- 
ship, entitles  him  to  the  approbation  and  favor  of  every  Odd  Fel- 
low. And  whereas,  his  indefatigable  industry  and  unceasing 
efforts  to  unite  this  country,  from  north  to  south,  from  east  to 
west,  in  one  common  brotherhood,  manifested  from  his  earliest 
establishment  of  this  Order,  and  more  especially  by  his  recent 
disinterested  and  laborious  visit  to  the  Western  and  Southern 
States,  and  the  glorious  success  resulting  from  his  tour,  by  the 
establishment  of  Odd  Fellowship  in  the  great  States  of  Ohio, 
Kentucky  and  Louisiana,  invoke  our  gratitude,  and  imperiously 
demand  a  lasting  perpetuation  of  his  merits: — Therefore, 

Jtesolved,  That  a  committee  be  appointed  to  prepare  and  pre- 
sent, on  behalf  of  this  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  to  P.  G.  S. 
Thomas  Wildey,  a  token  of  the  high  respect  which  this  Grand 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  225 

Lodge  entertains  for  these  distinguished  services  to  the  Order,  and 
the  affectionate  regard  which  we  cherish  for  his  private  worth. 

These  resolutions  were  taken  up  at  the  evening  session  and 
adopted ;  and  Reps.  Ridgely,  Brannan,  Pearce,  Keyser,  Hopkins, 
Gettys  and  Neilson  were  appointed  to  carry  them  into  effect.  That 
is  to  say,  every  representative  present  was  put  on  the  committee, 
a  singular  instance  of  a  whole  body  forming  itself  into  a  special 
committee  as  a  guard  of  honor. 

At  the  afternoon  session  Rep.  Keyser,  from  the  committee  on  the 
constitution,  reported  a  form  of  constitution,  which,  being  consid- 
ered by  articles,  was  amended  and  adopted.  The  constitution  of 
1833  continued  to  exist,  with  amendments,  until  1854,  and  is 
the  basis  on  which  the  present  one  was  constructed.  Columbia 
Encampment  No.  1,  of  the  District  of  Columbia,  was  chartered 
upon  the  petition  of  brothers  "Win.  AY.  Moore,  Jas.  Gettys,  Geo.  M. 
Davis,  Robert  Boyd,  William  H.  Mauro,  Thomas  Stelle,  Joseph 
Borrows  and  William  L.  Bailey,  of  Washington  City.  By-laws 
to  accompany  the  constitution  were  proposed  and  adopted,  and  pro- 
per order  was  taken  for  printing  and  distributing  those  important 
documents.  James  McAnnal  having  appealed  from  a  sentence  of 
expulsion  by  Delaware  Lodge,  No.  1,  the  lodge  had  been  required 
to  give  him  a  new  trial.  The  lodge  refused  him  another  hearing, 
and  it  was  resolved  that  it  deserved  censure.  It  was  also  resolved 
to  suspend  the  opening  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Delaware  till  such 
time  as  Delaware  Lodge  should  return  to  its  duty.  The  G.  S. 
was  authorized  to  investigate  the  matter,  and  as  his  judgment 
might  dictate,  restore  the  brother  or  confirm  his  expulsion,  and  to 
report  his  action  in  the  premises  to  the  G.  Lodge.  All  unfinished 
business  having  been  referred  to  the  committee  on  the  constitu- 
tion, the  thanks  of  the  body  were  voted  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Penn- 
sylvania "  for  the  use  of  their  splendid  hall "  during  the  session, 
and  the  G.  Lodge  adjourned  the  first  meeting  held  out  of  Balti- 
more, to  meet  again  in  the  latter  city  at  the  regular  annual  ses- 
sion. 

Before  proceeding  to  the  next  session,  which  closes  this 
chapter,  and  which  also  terminates  the  official  career  of  the 
founder,  we  stop  to  narrate  the  manner  in  which  the  resolution 
wras  carried  out,  which  proposed  that  some  token  of  regard  and 
affection  should  signalize  the  retirement  of  the  chief.  It  was 
15 


226  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

"  Resolved,  that  a  committee  be  appointed  to  procure  and 
present  to  P.  G.  Sire  Wildej  a  piece  of  plate,  of  at  least  five 
hundred  dollars  value,  as  a  mark  of  the  respect  and  regard  in 
which  the  Grand  Lodge  holds  his  services  for  the  Order."  This 
was  immediately  adopted,  and  the  following  committee  appointed  : 
Reps.  Hopkins,  Keyser,  Pearce,  Skinner,  Ridgely  and  Lucas. 

This  was  a  great  venture,  when  at  the  last  report  the  treasury 
contained  only  the  sum  of  $97.10.  But  the  subordinates  came 
to  the  rescue;  Maryland  paid  $102.90,  New  York  $40.38,  Penn- 
sylvania $150,  Louisiana  $40,  Ohio  $10,  the  District  of  Columbia 
$17,  Virginia  $30,  New  Jersey  $10,  Kentucky  $8,  and  Delaware 
$5,  making  in  all  $413.28.  The  service  cost  $505,  and  the 
balance  of  $91.72  was  paid  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  The 
plate  was  bought  through  the  agency  of  Bro.  Andrew  E.  Warner, 
of  Baltimore,  afterwards  G.  Treas.  of  the  G.  Lodge,  and  no  pains 
were  spared  to  have  it  of  the  finest  quality  and  of  exquisite 
design.  At  length  it  was  brought  into  the  body  of  representatives, 
and  the  veteran  was  called  up  to  receive  it  in  the  presence  of  the 
assembled  membership.  The  doors  of  the  G.  Lodge  were  thrown 
open,  and  the  P.  Grands  in  full  regalia  filled  every  seat.  The 
record  tells  us  that  Rep.  Hopkins,  of  Pennsylvania,  made  the 
presentation  "  in  the  name  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd 
Fellows  in  the  United  States  of  America." 

This  service  of  plate  was  preserved  by  Brother  Wildey  with 
great  regard,  and  continued  to  adorn  his  household  during  his 
life,  and  since  his  decease,  with  many  jewels  and  medals  received 
by  him  from  lodges  and  encampments,  together  with  his  regalia,  has 
been  obtained  by  the  Order  in  Maryland,  as  a  sacred  memorial 
to  be  preserved  and  transmitted  to  posterity.  They  are  all  now 
on  exhibition  in  the  library  room  of  the  Hall  in  Baltimore. 

The  ninth  annual  session  convened  at  Baltimore  on  Monday 
the  2d  day  of  September,  1833.  Present,  Thomas  Wildey,  G.  S.; 
Thomas  Scotchburn,  D.  G.  S.;  Augustus  Mathiot,  G.  Sec.,  and 
Thomas  Morse,  G.  G.;  Reps.  George  Keyser,  of  Maryland ; 
Howell  Hopkins,  of  Pennsylvania,  and  Simon  Robinson,  of 
Delaware ;  Proxies  John  Pearce,  of  New  York  •  James  L. 
Ridgely,  of  Ohio,  and  Samuel  Lucas,  of  Louisiana,  The  G. 
Lodge  having  opened  for  business,  a  committee  was  appointed  to 
examine  the  credentials  of  Rep.  Robinson,  of  Delaware,  which 
were  found  correct,  his  G.  Lodge  having  been  restored  in  the 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  227 

recess.  No  other  credentials  were  passed  upon;  a  singular 
omission  of  the  precedents  which  had  before  been  followed.  The 
minutes  of  the  previous  annual  and  special  meetings  were  read 
and  approved,  and  the  reports  of  the  jurisdictions  and  the  sub- 
ordinates were  presented.  The  G.  Sire  then  submitted  his 
annual  report — Journal  139-40 — 1,  2,  3.  A  petition  was  re- 
ceived from  Bros.  John  M.  Wolfe,  John  Spalding,  Smith  Rock- 
well, T.  W.  Hays,  Richard  Eno,  William  P.  Dunton  and  John 
Wilson,  praying  for  a  charter  for  a  lodge  to  be  located  at  Norfolk, 
Virginia,  and  to  be  hailed  by  the  title  of  Washington  Lodge, 
No.  2 ;  to  be  attached  to  the  jurisdiction  of  Maryland.  The 
charter  was  granted.  A  letter  was  received  from  Bro.  Gettys, 
G.  Sire  elect,  excusing  his  absence  on  account  of  indisposition. 

On  the  3d  September,  1833,  a  meeting  was  held  of  the  same 
persons.  P.  G.  Brannan,  G.  Treas.  elect,  resigned  that  place, 
and  P.  D.  G.  M.  Augustus  Mathiot  was  unanimously  elected  to 
fill  the  vacancy.  P.  G.  S.  Wildey  before  leaving  the  chair  he 
had  so  long  filled,  delivered  the  following : 

FAREWELL    ADDRESS    OF    THE    FOUNDER. 

BRETHREN  : — The  period  has  now  arrived  when  the  long  and 
arduous  relations  existing  between  us  are  about  to  be  dissolved, 
and  the  duties  of  the  high  office  you  have  called  me  to  discharge 
for  the  last  eight  years  are  to  be  surrendered  to  that  authority 
from  which  it  emanated.  It  is  indeed,  my  brethren,  with  mingled 
feelings  of  pleasure  and  pride  that  I  retire  from  office — the 
pleasure  which  the  retrospect  affords,  and  pride  at  the  un- 
paralleled prosperity  which  our  beloved  Order  exhibits.  Pro- 
foundly sensible  of  the  distinguished  honor  you  have  conferred 
upon  me,  and  penetrated  with  a  lively  sense  of  gratitude,  I 
should  be  callous  to  the  best  feelings  of  our  nature  did  I  permit 
this  occasion  to  pass  without  thus  publicly  giving  vent  to  the 
emotions  of  my  heart. 

In  the  long  official  career  which  your  confidence  has  been 
pleased  to  mark  out  for  me,  many  things,  I  doubt  not,  have 
occurred,  perhaps  irregular  or  indiscreet.  Such,  my  brethren, 
you  may  rest  assured,  have  been  errors  of  the  head,  and  intended 
in  good  part  by  your  first  officer — such  errors  as  have  not,  hap- 
pily, worked  any  injury  to  the  gigantic  march  of  our  devoted 
institution.  It  is  needless  for  me  to  recount  to  you,  who  are  so 
well  acquainted  with  the  facts,  the  brilliant  history  of  our  Order, 
during  the  last  eight  years,  in  these  United  States.  It  has  earned 
for  itself  its  own  monuments,  and  attained  its  long  denied  rank 


228  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

in  the  scale  of  human  charitable  institutions.  And  I  trust 
nothing  shall  occur  to  oppose  its  onward  march  to  still  greater 
pre-eminence  and  distinction.  Friendship,  Love  and  Truth  are 
its  animating  principles,  and  should  be  deservedly  cherished  by 
us  as  the  great  pillars  of  social  intercourse  and  human  happiness. 

To  you  especially,  my  brethren,  the  Representatives  of  the 
States,  am  I  indebted.  To  your  friendly  counsel,  salutary  ad- 
monition, and  useful  instruction,  much  is  due  by  the  fraternity, 
and  to  your  vigilance  and  industry  for  the  welfare  of  the  Order 
at  large.  To  your  unceasing  labors,  and  judicious  legislation, 
the  Order  is  indebted  for  a  wise  and  liberal  Constitution,  which, 
whilst  it  protects  and  maintains  the  authority  of  this  body,  gives 
to  every  subordinate  jurisdiction  its  just  and  legitimate  rights. 
Your  recent  sessions  have  been  attended  with  more  than 
ordinary  labor,  and  I  doubt  not  that  they  will  be  crowned  with 
success. 

Permit  me,  before  I  close  these  remarks,  to  beg  you  all  most 
earnestly  to  believe  that  I  have  been  directed  with  an  eye  single 
to  the  prosperity  and  well-being  of  our  Order  in  my  official 
course ;  and  to  ask  of  you  to  do  me  the  justice  to  attribute  the 
many  errors  I  may  have  committed,  to  over  and  ill-judged  zeal, 
rather  than  to  caprice  or  bad  design. 

And  now  I  beg  leave  to  surrender  my  office  to  my  successor ; 
returning  the  homage  of  a  grateful  heart  to  the  Supreme  Being 
for  the  guardian  care  with  which  he  has  nursed  our  beloved 
Order — for  banishing  discord  and  disunion  from  among  us,  and 
putting  the  seal  of  disapprobation  upon  those  who  would  pull 
down  an  institution  created  for  purposes  revered  by  the  good 
and  respected  by  the  virtuous.  Let  me  invoke  a  continuance  of 
His  blessings;  may  He  guide  and  direct  your  counsels,  and 
temper  your  deliberations  with  wisdom  and  judgment ;  so  that 
you  may  preside  over  the  destinies  of  this  institution  with  re- 
ligious and  watchful  care.  May  He  inspire  my  worthy  successor 
with  a  due  sense  of  the  high  responsibilities  which  await  him, 
and  give  to  him  that  clearness  of  judgment  and  firmness  of 
€haracter,  integrity  of  purpose  and  brotherly  love,  so  necessary 
in  the  office  with  which  you  have  honored  him ;  and  may  He 
finally  have  Odd  Fellowship  throughout  the  globe  in  his  holy 
keeping. 

Brethren,  I  thank  you  for  your  attention ;  and  although  it  be 
painful  to  part  with  those  with  whom  we  have  so  long  and  inti- 
mately been  associated,  by  common  ties,  in  unity  of  counsel,  and 
in  joint  efforts  to  rear  and  sustain  an  institution  inferior  to  none 
on  earth,  (whose  fruit  is  peace  and  good-will  to  man) — yet  the 
consciousness  of  honest  effort  to  discharge  my  duties,  and  the 
cheering  success  which  has  crowned  our  labors,  soothe  the  bitter 
recollection,  and  sustain  me.  Farewell,  my  brethren  —  and 
permit  me  to  tender  to  you  individually  my  most  affectionate 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  229 

regard  and  best  wishes  for  your  continued  health,  happiness  and 
prosperity. 

P.  G.  M.  James  Getty s  was  then  duly  installed  Grand  Sire, 
and  the  Grand  Sire  appointed  D.  G.  M.  ROBERT  NEILSON  D. 
Grand  Sire.  Whereupon,  on  motion,  the  appointment  was 
unanimously  approved,  and  the  D.  Grand  Sire  and  P.  G.  M. 
Samuel  Pryor,  G.  Secretary ;  P.  D.  G.  M.  Augustus  Mathiot, 
G.  Treasurer ;  and  P.  G.  Thomas  Morse,  G.  Guardian,  were  sev- 
erally installed. 

And  thus  closes  the  story  of  an  official  life  which  began  in  a 
humble  hostelry  among  convivial  associates,  and  ended  in  a 
spacious  hall  among  a  band  of  the  best  and  noblest  of  the  land. 
The  man  of  a  few  boon  companions  was  now  sought  by  the  grave 
and  wise ;  the  humble  mechanic  with  a  single  WORD  and  a  simple 
GRIP  had  become  the  author  of  a  system  whose  secret  rites,  of 
manifold  beauty  and  scenic  power,  attracted  the  sympathies  of  the 
most  cultivated  persons ;  the  rude  beginner  of  a  club  had  become 
the  revered  founder  of  a  mighty  Order ;  the  illiterate  coach-spring 
maker  had  surrounded  himself  with  a  senate  of  learning  and 
intelligence ;  the  foreigner,  a  stranger  by  birth  to  the  country's 
traditions,  had  established  an  institution  which,  of  its  kind,  was 
the  pride  of  his  adopted  country ;  the  five  men  of  "  the  Seven 
Stars"  had  under  his  guidance  increased  to  thousands  of  the  best 
citizens  of  the  greatest  cities  and  States ;  and  the  obscure  denizen 
of  Still  House  Lane,  and  such  like  abodes,  was  welcomed  to 
banquets  of  honor  in  public  halls,  and  was  the  cynosure  of  every 
eye.  The  childless  and  brotherless  man  had  become  the  father 
of  a  mighty  family,  and  shared  the  aiFections  of  a  glorious  brother- 
hood. But  above  all,  the  name  of  WILDEY,  before  unknown,  had 
been  borne  by  his  exertions  and  merits  upon  the  wrings  of  fame, 
until  England  and  America,  in  their  most  virtuous  citizens,  rose 
up  to  do  him  reverence,  and  dwelt  with  joy  upon  the  utterance 
of  that,  now,  celebrated  name. 

A  review  of  the  situation  will  show  the  Order's  numerical 
and  financial  condition  at  this  time.  The  G.  Lodge  itself  had 
no  money  and  but  little  credit.  Its  constitution,  adopted  Janu- 
ary 15,  1825,  had  two  provisions  looking  to  a  revenue;  thus 
Article  9:  "Each  State  G.  Lodge  shall  pay  equal  proportions 
toward  defraying  the  expenses  that  shall  occur  in  the  G.  Lodge 


230  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

of  the  U.  S.;  and  each  G.  Lodge  shall  bear  the  expenses  of  its 
Kepresentative."  And  Article  17 :  "  The  charter,  with  the 
charges  and  lectures  of  the  first  or  White,  second  or  Blue,  third 
or  Scarlet,  together  with  the  Covenant  or  Remembrance  Degrees, 
shall  be  charged  at  thirty  dollars  to  defray  the  expenses  thereof, — 
the  money  to  be  paid  immediately  on  the  delivery  of  the  same  ; 
but  provided,  if  the  lodge  so  forming  has  not  the  means  to  pay 
that  amount,  the  degree  books  will  be  detained  until  it  can 
comply  with  the  whole  charge.  It  must  also  defray  all  travelling 
expenses." 

At  the  second  meeting  after  the  body  was  organized,  the 
Royal  Purple  Degree  was  produced  and  sent  to  the  G.  Lodges, 
and  its  price  required  to  be  returned  to  pay  the  expenses  of  the 
G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  and  of  the  Representatives.  This  was  a 
very  slight  addition,  and  was  not  much  helped  by  the  coming  of 
the  Patriarchal  Degree  in  September  following,  and  requiring 
one  dollar  from  every  brother  who  should  receive  it.  The  price 
of  the  latter  degree  wras  afterwards  increased  to  two  dollars  and 
fifty  cents.  These  were  very  inadequate  means  of  revenue,  and 
small  as  they  were,  not  easy  to  collect ;  this  was  notoriously  the 
fact  with  reference  to  the  payment  of  the  current  expenses  by  the 
G.  Lodges  provided  for  by  Article  9.  Therefore  on  the  1st  day 
of  May,  1828,  it  was,  "  Resolved,  that  at  each  annual  meeting  of 
the  G.  Lodge,  it  shall  be  the  duty  of  the  representatives  or 
proxies  of  each  State,  to  estimate  the  current  expenses  of  the 
ensuing  year,  and  draw  on  each  State  G.  Lodge  for  the  same, 
which  must  be  immediately  paid,  to  enable  the  G.  Sire  to  pay 
the  necessary  and  essential  expenses  that  may  occur,  and  that  he 
keep  a  regular  account  of  the  same,  and  present  it  to  the  G. 
Lodge  at  the  annual  communication." 

This  last  resolution  admits  the  fact  that  G.  S.  Wildey  was 
acting  as  Treasurer,  and  was  receiving  and  paying  out  the  money 
without  special  orders,  and  that  the  whole  matter  was  left  in  his 
hands.  When  we  discover  that  he  was  spending  his  own  money 
to  eke  out  the  slender  income,  and  was  the  largest  creditor,  the 
reason  for  such  acquiescence  is  apparent.  The  same  action  was 
kept  up  in  1829,  Journal  99,  when  it  was  provided,  "  that  of 
moneys  received  by  the  G.  Sire  for  charters,  as  well  as  the  per 
centage  from  subordinate  lodges,  acting  under  the  jurisdiction  of 
the  G.  Lodge  of  the  IT.  S.,  the  sum  of  one  hundred  dollars  be 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  231 

retained  to  defray  all  incidental  expenses ;  and  that  the  G.  Sire 
keep  a  correct  account  of  the  same,  and  present  it  to  the  G. 
Lodge  at  its  next  annual  meeting."  This  was  somewhat  more 
specific,  as  an  account  was  now  to  be  kept  and  to  be  duly  presented 
for  the  action  of  the  body ;  but  no  such  statement  was  made,  for  the 
obvious  reason  that  no  funds  were  on  hand,  and  the  G.  Lodge 
was  pleased,  on  the  5th  of  September,  1831,  to  elect  a  Treasurer, 
when  as  before  stated,  there  was  no  treasury,  and  the  election  was 
treated  as  a  nullity.  Meanwhile  the  prosperity  of  Maryland,  and 
more  largely  that  of  Pennsylvania,  had  reacted  on  the  G.  Lodge ; 
the  percentage  from  those  States  satisfied  the  G.  Sire  and  he  wras 
no  longer  a  creditor.  Accordingly  in  that  year  he  states  an 
account,  the  first  to  be  found  upon  the  records ;  see  Journal  117. 
After  charging  himself  with  cash  received  from  subordinates  to  the 
G.  Lodge  to  the  amount  of  $201.47,  he  claims  credits  for  $114.25, 
leaving  a  balance  in  his  hands  of  $87.22.  The  Secretary  was,  by 
the  constitution,  entitled  "  to  reasonable  compensation,"  and  one 
item  of  the  credits  was  $30  paid  that  officer.  His  next  report 
was  made  in  1832 ;  see  Journal  132.  This  is  rather  a  curious 
account ;  he  admits  the  balance  of  the  last  year,  the  receipt  of 
$47  from  Maryland  and  Pennsylvania,  and  of  $180  from  the  newr 
lodges  in  Louisiana,  Ohio  and  New  Jersey,  making  in  all  $314.22. 
From  this  gross  sum  he  deducts  $66.87  advanced  in  various 
amounts  to  Massachusetts,  NewT  York,  Rhode  Island,  Delaware 
and  the  District  of  Columbia,  and  a  further  amount  for  general 
expenses,  leaving  $97.10  in  the  treasury.  This  settlement  shows 
that  the  salary  of  the  G.  Secretary  was  thirty  dollars  per  annum. 
Here  for  the  first  time  we  find  the  account  of  the  State  G. 
Lodges  with  their  superior  detailed. 

The  difficulty  which  the  G.  Sire  could  never  settle  between 
the  G.  Lodge  and  Pennsylvania  and  New  York,  stands  out  prom- 
inently on  the  journal.  The  trouble  was  about  money ;  Massa- 
chusetts was  yet  owing  her  quota  of  expenses  from  1824  down  to 
and  inclusive  of  1832,  and  New  York  was  charged  with  owing 
for  the  sessions  of  1830-31  and  32.  The  District  of  Columbia 
was  also  in  arrears  for  two  years ;  the  subordinates  in  New  Jersey 
owed  for  charter  fees  $60 ;  the  Delaware  subordinates,  for  per 
centage  and  advances,  $72,  and  the  lodge  in  Rhode  Island,  on  the 
same  account,  was  in  arrears  $45  ;  a  total  of  debts  of  $501.64  due 
to  the  G.  Lodge  and  only  $97.10  in  the  treasury. 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

These  figures  tell  with  great  accuracy  of  the  fearful  struggle 
for  life  which  the  young  iodges  encountered,  and  which,  for  a 
time,  had  a  crushing  influence  upon  the  Order.  The  members 
were  poor,  the  expenses  were  great,  and  were  daily  increas- 
ing ;  rent,  regalia,  lodge  furniture,  not  to  mention  constant  calls 
for  relief  upon  an  empty  exchequer,  were  unceasingly  making 
their  importunate  demands,  until  the  whole  membership  was 
crushed  under  the  weight  of  the  intolerable  burden.  But  when, 
to  crown  their  misfortunes,  the  distant  and  insolvent  parent  lodge, 
which  was  already  in  debt  to  its  presiding  officer,  came,  like  an 
inexorable  creditor,  demanding  its  quota  and  expenses,  they  were 
in  despair,  and  in  the  cases  of  Massachusetts  and  New  York,  were 
driven  from  the  field. 

The  final  account  of  the  G.  Sire  was  rendered  down  to  Sep- 
tember, 1833,  (see  Journal,  163),  in  which,  of  $476.10  received, 
he  had,  after  paying  expenses,  a  final  balance  of  $8.52.  Here  he 
ceased  to  act  as  G.  Treasurer,  having  paid  the  balance  on  hand 
to  Augustus  Mathiot,  the  first  who  held  and  performed  the  duties 
of  that  office  in  the  G.  Lodge.  These  facts  will  exhibit  clearly 
how  completely  the  G.  Sire  was  an  embodiment  of  the  whole 
movement  during  his  terms  of  office ;  in  which,  to  use  a  current 
phrase,  he  held  both  "  purse  and  sword  ";  when  he  absorbed  in 
himself  the  vital  force  of  the  whole,  and  was  in  all  but  name  the 
Grand  Lodge  itself. 

The  Order  had  fared  better  than  its  finances  wrould  seem 
to  indicate.  In  1825  there  were  4  G.  Lodges,  those  of  Maryland, 
Massachusetts,  New  York  and  Pennsylvania ;  attached  to  these 
were  only  9  subordinate  lodges,  of  a  membership  so  small  that 
the  aggregate  could  not  have  exceeded  a  few  hundreds.  In 
1826  there  was  an  addition  of  but  3  subordinates,  2  of  them  in 
New  York  and  one  in  Pennsylvania;  while  in  1827,  of  the  two 
new  lodges  opened,  one  was  in  Maryland  and  the  other  was  in 
Massachusetts,  making  in  all  14.  In  1828  the  District  of  Colum- 
bia furnished  2  subordinates,  and  each  of  the  other  States,  except- 
ing Maryland,  a  single  accession,  and  the  gross  number  had  risen 
to  19.  For  the  first  time  we  find  a  notice  of  expulsions,  which 
amounted  to  20,  and  Pennsylvania  reported  568  members.  1829 
gave  better  indications.  Maryland,  indeed,  was  stagnant ;  Massa- 
chusetts and  New  York  had  but  a  meagre  increase  of  2  each ;  but 
Pennsylvania  began  to  exhibit  vitality,  and  instead  of  5,  reported 


THE   GKAND    LODGE   OF   THE    UNITED    STATES.  233 

13  subordinate  lodges,  which  made  the  respectable  number  of  31 ; 
but  five  expulsions  appear. 

The  year  1830  was  still  more  encouraging;  27  new  lodges  had 
been  formed,  and  the  whole  number  had  reached  58.  But  the 
prosperity  was  due,  for  the  most  part,  to  Pennsylvania,  which  had 
gathered  in  20  lodges,  which,  added  to  2  instituted  in  New  Jer- 
sey and  one  in  Rhode  Island,  left  but  4  for  the  other  localities. 
There  was  this  year,  indeed,  a  fifth  Grand  Lodge,  but  it  was  an 
anomaly  in  the  system,  having  but  eighty  members  under  its  rule. 
The  District  of  Columbia,  with  its  4  lodges  and  $395.28  of  reve- 
nue, was  indeed  of  the  size  only  of  an  ordinary  subordinate. 
For  the  first  time  we  have  the  numbers  of  the  membership  in 
more  than  one  jurisdiction ;  the  District  counted  80,  Maryland 
709,  and  Pennsylvania,  having  more  than  doubled  its  number, 
reported  the  very  satisfactory  number  of  2247.  The  others  were 
silent,  and  could  not  have  been  numerous,  but  the  admitted 
total  of  3036  members  was  a  tangible  something  of  the  greatest 
promise. 

The  next  year,  1831,  witnessed  the  revival  in  Maryland,  when 
the  numbers  were  more  than  doubled  ;  Pennsylvania  was  rapidly 
growing,  and  brought  in  an  addition  of  506,  and  the  Order  was 
planted  in  Delaware,  Rhode  Island,  Ohio  and  Louisiana ;  but  the 
cause  was  waning  in  Massachusetts  and  New  York.  The  number 
of  lodges  was  69,  and  there  were  4451  contributing  members. 
The  table  of  the  year  gives  2166  initiations,  20  suspensions,  7 
expulsions,  and  $26,464.52  of  revenue,  against  the  sum  of 
$15,727.48  of  the  previous  year.  The  year  1832  was  still  favorable ; 
there  were  93  subordinates,  5956  members,  and  a  revenue  of 
$35,324.78 ;  the  initiations  were  2549,  suspensions  4,  and  expul- 
sions 29. 

At  the  close  of  Wildey's  administration  the  Order  was  respect- 
able and  vigorous,  and  foundations  were  strongly  laid  in  Mary- 
land and  Pennsylvania,  upon  which  a  solid  building  could  safely 
be  erected.  Kentucky  and  Virginia  had  been  added,  and  there 
were  now  8  Grand  Lodges  subordinate  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United  States,  omitting  Massachusetts,  which  had  fallen  away. 
Surely  the  needy  Grand  Lodge,  though  suffering  for  the  want  of 
money,  had  much  to  console  it  in  the  prosperity  of  the  member- 
ship. Maryland  and  Pennsylvania  had  passed  the  crisis,  and  the 
seed  sown  in  other  States  gave  everywhere  indications  that  in  due 


234  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

time  it  would  produce  a  goodly  harvest.  In  September,  1833, 
a  total  of  100  lodges,  6349  contributing  members,  and  a  receipt 
for  the  year  of  $22,718.92,  were  an  earnest  of  final  triumph.  The 
ordeal  was  over,  the  principles  and  the  organization  were  approved, 
and  a  nucleus  for  a  national  institution  firmly  impacted,  and  dedi- 
cated to  that  future  which  has  always  smiled  upon  the  cause. 

We  may  now  pause  and  reflect  upon  the  narrative  which  has 
brought  us  down  to  such  an  auspicious  hour  in  the  history ;  a 
period  when  the  original  laborers  were  dead,  or  had  retired  from 
the  sole  responsibility.  In  so  doing,  many  things  will  occur  to 
the  reader,  some  of  which  could  not  be  amplified  in  the  space 
allotted  for  this  work. 

I. — We  must  admit  that  the  causes  hereinbefore  set  forth  for 
the*  wonderful  effects  that  followed,  wrere  apparently  greatly  out 
of  proportion  to  these  effects,  and  of  a  singularly  composite  nature 
and  quality. 

II. — That  the  actors  who  set  the  enterprise  on  foot  were  not 
such  as  we  would  ordinarily  select  to  found  and  build  up  a  per- 
manent and  splendid  beneficial  and  moral  institution. 

III. — That  the  founders,  although  they  ultimately  furnished 
the  fundamental  plan  for  the  edifice,  began  with  none  of  those 
consultations  wrhich  usually  precede  great  undertakings.  For  it 
is  plain  that  the  Order  grew  upon  them,  and  took  form  according 
to  the  exigency  of  each  particular  incident  in  the  history. 

IY. — That  but  one  of  the  original  few  who  began  the  work 
took  part  in  all  the  successive  movements,  and  enjoyed  the  full 
measure  of  final  success — Entwisle  having  died  in  1824,  and  Welch 
having  retired  in  1829. 

Y. — That  the  first  movers  were  strangers  and  foreigners 
where  they  labored  and  broke  ground,  in  a  hostile  city,  and  there- 
fore could  not  and  never  did  by  personal  influence  commend  it  to 
the  native  population. 

YI. — That  the  first  efforts  were,  for  the  most  part,  failures, 
and  no  great  success  was  achieved  by  the  originators,  until  new 
men  and  measures  were  supplied  by  later  accessions.  In  this 
connection  all  will  at  once  recur  to  the  literary  member,  John 
Pawson  Entwisle. 

VII. — That  the  original  secrets  were  greatly  altered  and 
added  to  by  other  work  more  satisfactory  and  better  adapted  to 
the  purpose,  although  in  the  main  the  first  basis  was  retained. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    THE    UNITED    STATES.  235 

Here  notably  appear  the  American  degrees,  and  especially  the 
degree  of  the  Covenant,  which  again  brings  forward  Grand  Sec- 
retary Entwisle  as  the  greatest  acquisition  to  the  cause.  His 
career  as  the  organizing  mind  that  produced  the  whole  plan,  and 
especially  as  connected  with  these  degrees,  will  appear  when  we 
speak  of  him  as  the  third  in  the  great  Trio. 

VIII. — That  a  marked  indication  of  the  early  period  was  a 
recognition  of  the  patriotic  feeling  which  then  existed  in  this 
country.  This  was  partly  voluntary,  but  also  necessary,  gro wing- 
out  of  the  antipathy  toward  Englishmen  then  prevailing  in 
Baltimore.  But  it  was  also  sound  policy ;  hence  Washington 
Lodge,  named  for  the  father  of  his  country ;  Franklin,  after  the 
American  patriot  and  philosopher ;  and  Columbia,  which  was 
the  patriotic  cognomen  by  which  this  country  was  described. 
Hence  also  the  banishment  of  "  Rule  Britannia "  and  the  loud 
call  for  "  Hail  Columbia  "  in  the  lodge-room  and  at  the  convivial 
board.  All  these  were  creditable  alike  to  their  heads  and 
hearts ;  we  do  not  therefore  wonder  that  the  first  sentence  in  the 
general  laws  of  1821  or  1822  was  as  follows: 

"  SEC.  1.  This  fraternity  will  meet  to  assist  every  brother 
who  may  apply,  through  distress  or  otherwise,  who  is  well  attached 
to  the  government  and  faithful  to  the  Order." 

IX. — That  fraternal  and  social  motives  were  chiefly  relied  upon 
at  the  beginning,  and,  whatever  may  have  been  the  case  after- 
wards, the  beneficial  feature  did  not  cause  the  success  of  the  first 
decade. 

X. — That  the  system  of  charity  as  distinguished  from  benefits, 
now  grown  to  such  immense  proportions,  is  modern  and  Ameri- 
can, and  is  the  outgrowth  of  the  principles  as  distinguished 
from  the  benefit  system.  The  names  of  such  as  have  been  con- 
spicuous in  this  direction  would  include  all  our  Past  Grand 
Sires,  living  and  dead,  with  those  of  brothers  now  living  who  are 
well  known  to  the  Order. 

XI. — That  the  plan  finally  proposed  was  modeled  after  the 
State  and  general  governments  of  this  country,  and  was  intended 
to  be  a  system  well  compacted  and  balanced,  and  not  to  be  dis- 
turbed but  for  the  gravest  reasons.  Many  years  of  experiment 
and  toil  have  given  us  such  a  system,  and  we  should  leave  no 
means  untried  to  preserve  it  from  innovation. 


236  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Last  of  all,  we  must  perceive  that  there  are  "  Ancient 
Landmarks,"  so  well  established  and  rooted  in  our  system  that 
they  do,  and  forever  ought  to  remain  as  "  fixed  facts  "  and  un- 
written law.  An  Order  like  ours  should,  in  coming  years,  have 
some  claim  to  antiquity  and  uniformity,  and  this  will  be  best 
secured  by  adherence  to  ancient  usages,  where  they  are  as 
valuable  and  interesting  as  many  which  any  intelligent  brother 
will  be  able  to  indicate. 

But  other  reflections  will  occur  of  the  most  gratifying  nature. 
The  reader  will  remember  with  pride  that  no  stain  rests  upon 
any  of  our  honored  names;  that  if  unknown  and  unregarded, 
they  were  good  men,  who  rose  by  personal  merit  to  distinction ; 
that  the  early  lodges,  were  never  under  the  ban  of  virtue  or  the 
la\v  of  the  land ;  that  they  never  disturbed  the  public  peace ; 
never  interfered  with  religion  or  party  politics,  and  thus  did  not 
become  the  tools  of  sect  or  faction :  but  that  they  inscribed  on 
their  banners  TOLERATION  and  BROTHERLY  LOVE;  memorable 
and  prophetic  watchwords,  destined  yet,  "  like  the  drum-beat  of 
England,"  to  go  round  the  world. 


JOHN  PAWSON  ENTWISLE. 


CHAPTER    X. 

JOHN    PAWSON    ENTWISLE. 

He  drew  his  light  from  that  he  was  amidst, 
As  doth  a  lamp  from  air,  which  hath  itself 
Matter  of  light,  altho'  it  show  it  not. 

—BAILEY'S  "FESTUS." 

THE  INTELLECTUAL  AND  LITERARY  MAN. 

We  do  not  know  of  any  association  which  has  cultivated 
literature  as  have  the  Odd  Fellows  of  the  United  States.  At  an 
early  day  the  call  was  for  a  magazine  to  defend  and  proclaim  its 
principles,  and  now  we  are  pre-eminent  in  the  solidity,  talent, 
power  and  numbers  of  our  publications.  From  the  first  every 
struggle  was  for  light  to  illuminate  the  public  mind ;  each  move, 
ment  of  the  fathers  had  a  separate  chronicle,  an  appropriate 
statement,  a  formal  address.  This  habit  became  constitutional, 
and  descended  to  the  children ;  however  secret  the  rites,  yet  no 
satisfaction  is  felt  until  the  exoteric  doctrine  is  made  public  by  a 
suitable  oration.  A  lodge-room  is  a  school  of  instruction  not  to 
be  surpassed  by  academy  or  college.  Here  order  is  taught ;  the 
order  of  intelligence,  rank,  and  service  respectively.  Here 
symbol  and  allegory  amuse,  inform  and  edify ;  here  scenic  effects 
excite  astonishment  and  elevate  the  fancy ;  here  models  and 
examples  inspire  the  loftiest  emulation  of  the  highest  excellence  ; 
here  eloquent  sentiments,  set  to  beautiful  language  and  adorned 
with  truthful  imagery,  stimulate  to  virtue ;  and  here  conflicting 
creeds  and  platforms,  banished  beyond  the  ante-room,  are  replaced 
by  brotherly  love  and  unity.  "What  wonder  then  that  the 
grateful  brother  would  share  his  treasures  with  mankind ;  that  he 
should  magnify  his  hours  of  pleasure  and  improvement,  and  in 
the  happiness  of  a  full  cup,  seek  to  share  the  glorious  libation  with 
the  wrorld. 

To  reach  the  great  public  with  such  an  institution  as  ours, 
many  and  diverse  qualities  are  requisite  in  its  exponents.  Its 
plan  must  be  feasible,  to  be  sure,  and  its  promises  inviting  in  the 
vital  matter  of  pecuniary  aid.  But  this  settled,  other  requisites 

(237) 


238  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

are  demanded ;  there  must  be  the  prudent  adviser,  the  able 
expositor,  and  the  arm  of  a  strong  executive.  Welch  was  the 
conservative  actor,  Entwisle  the  literary,  and  Wildey  the  execu- 
tive ;  the  three  came  together  as  one  man,  and  exerted  all  these 
powers  at  once  and  in  the  same  direction ;  hence  the  result  was 
one,  but  in  it  are  found  all  the  elements  that  entered  into  the 
composition  of  the  fruitful  trio.  Our  wrise  heads  and  lovers  of 
the  landmarks  represent  the  characteristics  of  Welch  ;  our  dashing 
pioneers  and  workers,  of  Wildey ;  but  the  philosophic  and  moral 
element,  which  lives  in  the  spirit  of  the  doctrines  as  the  Neophyte 
in  the  sacred  secrets  of  the  inner  sanctuary,  are  lineal  descendants 
of  the  cultivated  and  thoughtful  genius  who  gave  a  charm  to  the 
rough  outline  and  made  it  beautiful. 

ENTWISLE    BEFORE    HE   JOINED    WILDEY. 

John  Pawson  Entwisle,  like  most  of  the  early  members  of  the 
Order,  was  a  native  of  England ;  but  of  what  part  has  never 
been  disclosed.  The  silence  of  his  contemporaries  on  the  subject 
of  his  personal  history  can  be  accounted  for  by  the  ignorance  of 
all  of  the  importance  of  the  special  services  of  each  of  the  parties ; 
another  reason  is  apparent  in  the  absence  of  that  culture  among 
his  coadjutors  which  could  alone  detect  his  excellence.  But  the 
best  and  true  reason,  we  suppose,  was  that  the  arch-worker  Wildey 
by  his  splendid  energy  obscured  all  other  merit,  or  had  the  good 
fortune  to  have  it  reflected  in  himself.  Wildey  had  nothing  to- 
communicate  that  was  not  already  known,  and  never  spoke  of 
Entwisle  as  he  did  of  Welch,  Boyd  and  others,  who  were  his 
acknowledged  favorites.  This  is  certainly  remarkable;  several 
of  those  that  knew  Entwisle  survived  him  for  more  than  forty 
years,  and  two  of  them  are  now  living,  yet  they  retain  no  impres- 
sion of  his  eminence.  It  may  be  that  the  superior  traits  we  find 
in  this  brother  were  entirely  overlooked  ;  perhaps  their  standpoint 
was  too  close  and  his  presence  too  familiar  for  accurate  and 
dispassionate  criticism.  Envy  may  have  drawn  the  veil  around 
him  when  he  sunk  suddenly  out  of  sight,  and  left  no  cultivated 
brother  to  gather  and  preserve  his  laurels.  It  may  even  be  that 
serious  or  fatal  defects  of  character  had  made  him  obnoxious  to 
the  brotherhood. 

Wildey's  silence  might  have  been  caused  by  Entwisle's  fatal 
prominence  and  masterly  importance  in  a  common  field.  It  will 


JOHN    PAWSON    ENTWISLE.  239 

be  found  in  another  chapter  that  we  have  not  imagined  the 
founder  worthy  of  apotheosis ;  we  present  him  as  we  find  him,  with 
his  appetites  and  habits  as  well  as  his  "  blushing  honors."  It 
was  not  in  his  nature  to  brook  a  rival,  nor  his  fault  if  he  was  true 
to  his  nature.  Wilde}7  loved  reputation,  such  as  he  attained,  as 
only  such  men  can  love  it.  He  left  Boyd  and  the  rest  behind 
and  below  him.  Welch  retired  and  gave  him  the  wThole  field,  but 
not  so  of  the  Grand  Secretary.  He  had  gone  down  in  his  harness 
as  the  first  medal  was  preparing  to  adorn  his  bosom.  He  had 
clothed  the  rude  figure  with  graceful  drapery  as  the  originator  of 
the  American  degrees.  His  was  the  correspondence  that  in 
weighty  words  moulded  others  to  the  common  policy  ;  his  the  pen 
that  in  polished  diction  and  with  flowing  periods  gave  the  poetic 
impulse ;  above  all,  his  hand  wrote  those  reports,  resolutions  and 
addresses  by  which  the  great  leader  signalized  each  successive 
step  to  victory. 

To  such  as  have  studied  human  nature,  it  is  not  new  to  hear 
of  "  the  fears  of  the  brave,  and  the  follies  of  the  wise,"  nor  that  an 
unlettered  man  should  pride  himself  upon  his  literary  merits.  It 
is  not  strange  then  if  Wildey,  everywhere  receiving  the  applause 
due  to  the  papers,  of  which  by  the  record  he  was  the  writer, 
should  have  hesitated  to  give  the  credit  to  another.  Besides, 
Entwisle  was  dead  and  forgotten,  it  could  do  no  good ;  he  was  a 
stranger,  and  left  no  friends  to  keep  his  memory  alive.  This  day 
was  not  anticipated,  when  softer  hands  and,  if  not  kinder,  yet 
kindred  hearts  should  hunt  him  out  and  bear  him  to  the  light, 
when  his  work  should  praise  him,  and  the  Order  he  served  so 
well  would  hail  him  as  worthiest  of  all  in  what  adds  lustre  to 
these  later  days,  the  reign  of  the  lofty  moral  principles  of  wrhich 
he  wrote  so  well.  We  have  no  patience  with  the  trifling  details 
of  a  meagre  record  full  of  trumpery,  which  cannot  even  tell  us 
one  fact  of  a  life  and  death  of  such  importance  to  the  Order.  If 
he  was  forgotten  in  the  expectation  of  his  predictions,  we  can  only 
deplore  with  Pliny :  "  Ea  sub  oculis  posita  negligimus  ;  prox- 
imorum  incuriosi,  longinqua  sectamur" 

In  what  manner  then  we  may,  and  with  the  meagre  materials 
at  hand,  we  shall  proceed.  We  know  that  he  was  married,  that 
he  was  young,  that  he  left  a  widow,  who  may  for  what  we  knowr 
be  now  living.  We  only  see  him  in  the  year  1821  flashing 
meteor-like  in  the  twilight  of  that  era,  and  in  1824  suddenly 


240  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

disappearing  below  the  horizon.  Persistent  inquiry  has  discovered 
or  started  certain  traditional  stories  of  him,  some  of  which  may 
have  good  foundation.  All  say  that  he  was  the  son  of  a  Christian 
Minister ;  one  makes  the  father  a  Presbyterian,  and  another  an 
Episcopalian.  Again,  the  father  \vas  a  Wesleyan  Minister;  but 
all  agree  that  he  was  intended  for  the  sacred  calling,  but  after 
receiving  the  proper  education,  refused  to  enter  on  the  ministry. 
An  early  marriage  is  cited  as  the  reason  that  had  the  most  weight 
with  him  in  his  decision ;  that  necessity  drove  him  from  home  to 
obtain  sustenance  for  his  family.  "  And  thus,"  says  G.  Sire 
Kennedy,  "  he  became  estranged  from  his  family ;  and  before 
many  years,  with  his  young  wife  and  child,  emigrated  to 
America." 

Taking  up  his  abode  in  Baltimore,  he  procured  employment  on 
one  of  the  newspapers  of  the  day  ;  as  he  signed  himself  printer,  he 
may  have  learned  that  gentle  craft  and  practiced  the  art  "  pre- 
servative." Here,  of  course,  he  was  supplied  with  general  infor- 
mation, as  well  as  opportunity  for  study  and  improvement. 
While  thus  situated,  his  social  nature  led  him  among  his  country- 
men, and  at  an  early  day,  to  join  with  them  to  build  up  the  Order 
of  Odd  Fellowship.  He  took  an  active  part  at  once,  for  he  seems 
to  have  been  better  instructed  in  the  progress  of  the  Order  in 
England  than  his  companions.  P.  G.  Sire  Kennedy  says,  "  he 
was  a  Past  Grand  in  1820,  while  John  Welch  was  Noble  Grand ; 
he  doubtless  passed  the  chairs  before  leaving  home ;  no  person 
having  at  that  time  been  IS".  G.  in  Washington  Lodge  but  Wil- 
dey."  We  doubt  this,  and  incline  to  believe  he  wras  made  and 
passed  in  Washington  Lodge ;  P.  G.  S.  Kennedy  may  have  had 
information  to  the  contrary,  but  we  are  of  the  opinion  he  was 
mistaken.  At  all  events,  we  find  him  a  P.  G.  in  the  earliest 
record  which  we  have  been  able  to  put  upon  the  journal.  What- 
ever may  be  the  fact,  he  is  claimed  by  Washington  Lodge  as  one 
of  its  early  initiates.  The  lost  minutes  could  alone  settle  the 
question. 

The  education  of  Entwisle  gave  him  a  leading  position,  espe- 
cially in  regard  to  improvements  in  the  work  of  the  Order,  or  in 
any  reform  that  might  be  projected.  Entirely  devoted  to  the  Wil- 
dey  interest,  he  led  the  way  to  improve  its  intellectual  condi- 
tion ;  his  ability  in  that  way  may  be  judged  by  the  design  and 
execution  of  the  Covenant  and  Remembrance  Degrees,  prepared 


JOHN    PAWSON    ENTWISLE.  241 

by  him  as  early  as  1820 ;  which,  in  substance  and  structure,  were 
altogether  superior  to  the  degrees  adopted  by  the  Manchester 
Unity  in  1816.  He  even  made  an  effort  to  improve  the  old  ritual, 
but  was  forced  to  desist ;  the  veneration  in  which  it  was  held 
made  its  bad  grammar  and  faulty  style  its  greatest  merits ;  indeed, 
the  awkwardness  of  its  diction  was  generally  esteemed  among  its 
distinguishing  beauties.  When  afterwards,  in  1831,  the  effort  was 
made  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  to  correct  some  of  its 
glaring  errors  in  style  and  composition,  some  who  are  yet  living 
know  how  grudgingly  it  was  done ;  the  mark  of  the  knife  could 
scarcely  be  detected.  And  when  again,  in  1835,  a  bolder  attempt 
was  made  in  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  how  suddenly 
it  shrank  before  the  angry  glance  of  "  ancient  usage."  It  was 
not  until  1845,  when  the  Order  had  become  fully  American,  that 
the  representatives  found  courage  to  disregard  the  past.  The 
effort  was  then  successful ;  all  of  the  old  essentials  were  retained, 
and  the  ancient  ritual  made  to  speak  pure  English.  That  great 
reform  did  not  stop  here,  but  introduced  new  features  of  refine- 
ment, which  gave  us  the  noble  ritual  of  to-day. 

AUTHOR    OF   THE    REPRESENTATIVE    SYSTEM. 

To  Entwisle  is  especially  due  the  credit  of  devising  the  rep- 
resentative system,  on  which  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United 
States  is  organized.  The  original  purpose  of  those  who  drafted 
the  warrant  which  came  back  from  Preston,  was  to  establish  a 
central  supreme  authority,  vested  in  a  local  working  lodge.  To 
his  superior  discernment,  endorsed  by  Welch,  the  Order  is  in- 
debted for  the  discovery  of  the  fallacy  of  this  plan,  and  especially 
of  its  unntness  for  this  country.  He  pointed  out  a  certain  failure 
on  the  one  hand,  and  indicated  the  true  policy,  by  which  Mary- 
land would  lose  nothing,  and  the  Order  would  spread  over  the 
nation.  He  and  Welch  found  their  model  in  the  political  frame- 
work of  the  government  of  the  United  States.  First,  subordinate 
lodges  in  the  several  States,  and  their  Past  Grands  in  a  State  G. 
Lodge  to  govern  and  defend  them ;  then,  over  all,  a  general  G. 
Lodge,  composed  of  representatives  from  the  State  G.  Lodges, 
as  the  supreme  head  of  the  Order.  It  is  not  contended  that  he 
saw  all  this  at  once,  or  that  he  fully  comprehended  its  tendency ; 
but  he  certainly  looked  and  worked  always  in  that  direction. 
His  masterly  report  from  the  committee  on  the  organization  of 
16 


242  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.,  is  sonorous  and  full  of  matter.  That 
paper,  having  no  precedent,  goes  over  the  whole  ground  in  a 
manner  that  at  once  bespeaks  the  gifted  member  of  the  family. 

To  examine  his  writings  and  subject  them  to  critical  investi- 
gation would  vindicate  our  estimate,  and  show  how  wrell  and 
forcibly  he  held  the  pen  and  supplied  the  brain-work.  In  one 
matter  he  had  a  choice,  but  it  was  not  gratified.  He  expected 
that  the  clause  in  the  constitution  making  the  city  of  Baltimore 
the  permanent  seat  of  the  body,  would  meet  with  no  opposition. 
He  had  set  his  heart  upon  this  feature ;  his  sudden  demise  saved 
him  from  a  painful  disappointment.  He  did  not  foresee  that 
two  of  the  four  Grand  Lodges  would  insist  on  striking  out 
"  permanent "  and  inserting  "  present."  For  he  had  made  calcu- 
lations on  the  foreign  jurisdictions ;  that  gratitude  would  move 
them  to  adopt  Baltimore  as  the  home  of  the  Order.  His  regrets 
would  have  been  greater,  because  in  his  advocacy  of  the  plan  he 
had  one  argument  that  put  down  all  opposition.  He  pointed  to 
the  clause  securing  the  Grand  Lodge  to  Maryland  as  the  special 
reason  for  wishing  to  have  it  rise  to  power.  He  thought  that 
human  nature,  in  common  gratitude  and  justice,  would  make  it 
acceptable  to  all.  But  Maryland  has  no  cause  to  complain  of 
the  supreme  body,  which  has  always  been  her  firmest  ally  and 
tower  of  defence. 

Some  two  months  before  his  death,  on  April  26th,  1824,  at 
the  annual  anniversary,  he  was  toasted,  and  made  a  response 
worthy  of  the  occasion ;  it  was  pithy  and  scholarly,  brief  and 
pointed,  a  model  for  windy  speakers.  But  he  shone  best  in 
composition,  when  he  sat  down  to  instruct,  persuade  or  encourage. 
In  the  old  copy  of  the  General  Laws  of  Washington  Lodge,  he 
introduces  them  in  these  words : 

INTRODUCTION. 

The  cultivation  of  friendship,  the  pleasures  of  good  company, 
and  the  improvement  of  morals  are  the  primary  objects ;  lor  the 
attainment  of  which  a  number  of  gentlemen  of  the  highest 
respectability,  belonging  to  the  several  societies,  who  are  faithful 
within  the  limits  of  this  terrestrial  globe,  have  formed  themselves 
into  a  fraternity  of  Independent  Odd  Fellows.  The  members  of 
this  fraternity  do  therefore  bind  themselves  under  the  most 
solemn  obligations,  firmly  to  unite,  sincerely  to  love,  and  in- 
flexibly to  stand  by  each  other,  in  sickness  or  in  health,  in  pov- 
erty or  in  competence,  in  prosperity  or  in  affliction. 


JOHN    PAWSON    ENTWISLE.  243 

Regarding  their  lodge  as  a  family  of  brethren,  among  whom 
the  welfare  of  the  whole  constitutes  the  happiness  of  the  indi- 
viduals, each  conceives  himself  bound  to  contribute  his  share, 
proportioned  to  his  abilities,  toward  the  general  fund  of  enjoy- 
ment. Every  ODD  FELLOW  cheerfully  subscribes  his  wit  to 
enliven  the  meetings,  as  well  as  his  money  to  defray  the  expenses 
of  the  lodge  ;  and  entertains  with  a  song  or  instructs  with  advice 
his  brethren  assembled.  Good  humor  and  good-will  are  the 
characteristic  features  of  the  fraternity  ;  honesty  and  Odd  Fellow- 
ship ought  never  to  be  separated.  "  Friendship,  Love  and 
Truth  "  is  the  motto  of  the  fraternity.  Truth  ought  therefore 
to  reign  on  his  lips ;  Love  in  the  affections ;  Friendship  in  the 
heart  of  every  Odd  Fellow. 

How  easy,  unaffected  and  graceful  the  style,  and  how  rich  the 
vein  of  humor,  pathos  and  eloquence  !  One  rises  from  the  perusal 
as  if  from  a  bath  of  generous  wine.  Dick  Steele  might  in  some 
happy  hour  have  sent  it  to  the  Spectator  as  one  of  those  Attic 
essays  that  made  him  famous.  It  is  but  rarely,  if  ever,  that  the 
most  eminent  talent  has  condensed  in  so  small  a  compass 
the  whole  object  of  the  Order  and  the  duties  of  its  members. 
Macaulay  says  that  young  Somers,  on  the  trial  of  the  Bishops,, 
made  the  reputation  of  the  first  constitutional  lawyer  in  England 
in  a  speech  of  but  fifteen  minutes ;  such  samples  as  we  have 
from  the  literary  Secretary  are  sufficient  to  stamp  him  a  rare 
genius,  and  to  put  the  seal  to  his  claims  as  the  intellectual  centre; 
of  early  Odd  Fellowship. 

But  his  chief  legacy  to  the  Order  was  the  Covenant  and  Re- 
membrance Degrees ;  of  the  latter  we  say  nothing,  as  it  has  not 
been  the  subject  of  special  commendation,  nor  of  much  criti- 
cism :  its  merits  however  have  been  sufficient  to  preserve  it. 
Some  change  of  apparel  was  made  in  it  in  1845,  but  the  sub- 
stance remains;  and  by  general  consent  it  is  retained  as  a 
worthy  part  of  the  written  work. 

THE    COVENANT    DEGREE. 

The  Covenant  Degree  demands  at  our  hands  a  far  different 
notice,  and  under  the  scrutiny  of  criticism  becomes  the  most  beau- 
tiful, instructive  and  consistent  part  of  the  ritual.  It  is  but  just 
to  remark,  in  limine,  however,  that  for  many  years  the  authorship 
of  this  degree  has  been  disputed ;  but,  as  we  believe,  with  no 
reasonable  show  of  probability.  In  1844  a  committee  on.  revision 


244  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

was  engaged  in  a  thorough  reconstruction  of  the  ritual ;  its  great 
design  was  to  prune  away  every  vestige  of  Masonic  work ;  arid 
when  detected,  to  substitute  in  its  place  original  and  suitable 
material.  The  Covenant  Degree  was  the  main  object  of  attack 
and  inquiry  in  that  direction.  Brothers  Chapin,  liidgely,  McCabe, 
Moore  and  Kennedy  were  charged  with  the  investigation,  which 
was  entered  upon  and  diligently  pursued.  The  committee  sat  in 
New  York,  and  consulted  every  Masonic  work  they  could  find  in 
the  metropolis,  and  advised  with  Masons  recognized  as  eminent 
in  that  work,  but  could  find  no  trace  or  foundation  for  the  impu- 
tation. The  nearest  approach  to  suspicion  wras  an  expression  of 
opinion,  that  in  some  respects  it  resembled  a  side  degree  of  the 
Masonic  Order. 

All  of  the  committee  were  Masons  in  good  standing,  and  left 
no  stone  unturned  to  find  the  suspicious  coincidence,  but  in  vain, 
and  they  concluded  that  its  origin  was  not  Masonic.  They  therefore 
laid  the  hand  of  revision  tenderly  upon  it,  and  retained  it  as  the 
sole  property  of  our  Order.  Brother  McCabe  was  on  the  commit- 
tee, but  did  not  take  part  in  the  revision,  and  of  course  did  not 
attend  this  scrutiny.  But  knowing  all  the  facts,  he  signed  the 
report,  and  gave  in  his  adhesion  to  what  the  others  had  done. 
Bro.  McCabe  was  outspoken  in  his  opinion  of  the  fallacy  of  the 
charge,  and  his  long  standing  and  superior  rank  in  the  Masonic 
body  ought  to  be  conclusive  on  that  point.  It  had  a  final  trial 
before  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  when  the  report  of 
the  revision  committee  was  considered ;  at  least  one-half  of  the 
representatives  were  Masons.  The  same  objection  was  then 
made  and  fully  discussed,  and  yet  the  report  of  the  committee 
was  unanimously  adopted.  It  was  thus  fully  acquitted  of  having 
been  filched  from  the  Masons.  But  its  great  merit  still  continued 
to  invite  assault ;  a  publication  by  Bro.  E.  P.  Nowell,  formerly 
of  the  American  Odd  Fellow,  of  the  ritual  of  the  Patriotic  Order 
of  Odd  Fellows,  has  caused  the  assertion  that  this  degree,  as  well 
as  the  Patriarchal  Order  itself,  had  been  borrowed  from  their 
ceremony.  We  have  carefully  read  that  ritual,  and  find  a  very 
slight  similitude  between  a  part  of  it  and  this  degree,  but  nothing 
to  justify  the  charge  of  plagiarism.  This  will  appear  beyond 
controversy  by  an  analysis  of  the  degree  itself. 

The  Covenant  or  Pink  Degree,  as  it  is  indiscriminately  called, 
combines  two  ideas,  or  rather  a  twofold  illustration,  drawn  from 


JOHN    PAWSON    ENTWISLE.  245 

distinct  and  .independent  sources;  one  profane,  and  the  other 
sacred  history,  but  each  teaching  the  same  lesson.  The  scene  of 
one  is  laid  in  Judea,  that  of  the  other  comes  to  us  from  Home. 
The  love  of  Jonathan  and  David,  as  related  in  the  book  of  Sam- 
uel, is  the  burden  of  the  former,  and  the  Fasces,  or  its  emblematic 
model,  the  latter.  The  symbolic  Fasces  were  constantly  in  view  in 
the  Senate  house,  and  were  always  borne  aloft  by  the  Lictors  in  the 
procession  of  a  triumph,  as  an  allegory  of  union,  or  strength  and 
power  as  the  fruit  of  union.  It  was  composed  of  single  sticks, 
which,  in  the  bundle,  formed  an  integer  of  many  parts,  thus  indi- 
cating weakness  in  the  parts  and  consolidated  power  in  the 
whole. 

The  Roman  legend  was  equally  adapted  to  the  purpose ;  the 
plebeians  deserted  the  aristocracy,  and  the  revolt  threatened  to 
bring  in  the  reign  of  agrarianism.  Shakspeare  has  admirably 
dramatized  the  incident  in  his  Coriolanus,  in  which  he  portrays 
with  admirable  skill  the  danger  of  division,  and  that  the  safety  of 
the  whole  depended  upon  a  union  of  all  the  parts.  These  furn- 
ished the  material  which  the  young  author  has  put  to  such  valu- 
able use.  Of  course  the  stories  were  not  of  his  invention  ;  but  he, 
like  Shakspeare,  has  caught  the  ideas  and  put  them  in  dramatic 
form  ;  giving  them  practical  development  as  moral  lessons  to 
mankind. 

But  we  may  be  asked,  what  did  he  supply  in  the  weaving  up 
of  that  so  well  furnished  to  his  hand.  The  answer  is  ea.sy ;  his 
fertility  and  creative  power  are  shown  by  his  application  of  the 
incidents  narrated.  He  bends  them  to  perform  auxiliary  but 
effective  duty  in  the  cause  he  served ;  adorning  them  with  rich 
mosaics  of  his  invention,  which  sparkle  like  diamonds  in  the  set- 
ting of  the  story.  Thus  the  QUIVER,  the  ARROWS,  the  STONE 
EASEL,  the  YOICE  OF  WARNING  and  the  FASCES  are  the  substance 
and  power  of  the  degree;  supplying,  as  they  do  under  his  skilful 
touch,  a  rare  combination  of  scenic  effect  and  moral  force.  If 
Entwisle  had  done  nothing  more  than  this,  his  fame  would  be  as 
sure  and  lasting  as  the  life  of  the  Order.  Its  place  in  the  theory 
of  the  degrees  will  be  set  forth  in  the  chapter  on  that  subject. 

But  this  was  but  a  small  portion  of  the  services  that  have  been 
so  ill  requited.  His  was  the  brain  and  genius  that  gave  life  to 
the  conceptions  which  he  alone  had  projected ;  and  his  the  con- 
summate skill  to  bring  about  that  union  which  gave  the  Order  its 
perpetuity  and  power. 


246  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

His  official  services  appear  upon  the  record  ;  whatever  his  pre- 
vious history  as  a  member,  the  first  known  minute  puts  him  next 
to  Wildey.  He  was,  by  acclamation,  made  Deputy  Grand  M  aster 
at  the  organization  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.  on 
the  7th  of  February,  1821.  He  was  thus  the  first  to  fill  the 
second  place  to  the  founder  of  the  Order.  This  office  of  labor  and 
responsibility  he  held  for  two  years,  when  he  gave  place  to  Welch. 
His  services  with  his  pen  were  imperatively  called  for  in  the  Sec- 
retary's office,  and  be  obeyed  the  call.  At  the  election  held  on 
the  22d  of  February,  1823,  he  was  elected  and  installed  Grand 
Secretary,  and  at  once  entered  on  the  duties  of  that  great  office. 
Here  he  organized  the  designs  of  his  colleagues,  and  became  the 
mainspring  of  all  that  followed. 

HIS    SUDDEN    DEATH. 

But  suddenly,  in  his  vigorous  manhood,  and  in  the  midst  of 
arduous  labor,  he  died.  He  had  no  after  recompense ;  he  had 
toiled  without  reward,  and  he  fell  almost  unnoticed  in  the  confu- 
sion of  the  events  then  occurring.  It  is  true  that  in  life  the 
Grand  Secretary  wras  duly  esteemed.  To  him  was  awarded  the 
first  medal  ever  granted  by  the  Grand  Lodge ;  to  him  was  awarded 
the  position  of  first  Grand  Representative ;  in  him,  next  to  Wil- 
dey, were  bound  up  the  hopes  of  all.  But  he  died  at  a  period 
when  most  of  them  thought  the  whole  work  was  done,  and  that 
the  great  workman  might  be  spared  or  give  place  to  feebler  men. 
When  the  shout  of  victory  was  heard  over  the  great  birth  of  a 
federal  union,  its  champion,  with  arms  crossd  upon  his  breast, 
was  left  to  his  silent  funeral.  His  sudden  departure  was  soon 
felt  to  be  a  calamity,  and  the  void  in  the  administrative  branch 
of  the  Order  was  not  filled  for  many  years;  many  efforts  to 
supply  his  place  were  signal  failures. 

The  record  may  be  to  blame,  but  the  following  is  not  at  all 
satisfactory : 

BALTIMORE,  July  6th,  1824. 

The  Grand  Committee  met  pursuant  to  a  call  of  the  Grand 
Master,  and  opened  in  regular  form.  Present : 

THOMAS  WILDEY,  M.  W.  G.  Master. 

THOMAS  SCOTCHBURN,  R.  W.  D.  G.  M.  p.  t. 

MAURICE  FENNELL,  ~R.  W.  A.  G.  Sec. 

JOHN  BOYD,  W.  G.  Guardian. 

CHARLES  COMMON,  W.  G.  Conductor,  and 
P.  G.'s  Nelson,  McCormick  and  Williams. 


JOHN    PAWSON    ENTWISLE.  247 

D.  G.  M.  Welch,  G.  W.  Mitchell,  and  P.  G.'s  Koach,  Seeds 
and  Harris  were  each  fined  50  cents. 

The  Grand  Master  stated  that  the  object  of  the  meeting  was  to 
take  some  action  relative  to  the  death  of  the  Grand  Secretary, 
JOHN  P.  ENTWISLE.  On  motion,  it  was  unanimously 

Resolved,  That  the  sum  of  fifteen  dollars  be  and  is  hereby 
appropriated  to  the  widow  of  our  Grand  Secretary,  John  P. 
Entwisle,  being  the  amount  intended  to  purchase  the  medal  voted 
him  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  for  his  services  rendered  to  the  Order 
in  general. 

The  proceedings  of  the  committee  of  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2, 
respecting  the  funeral  of  our  Grand  Secretary,  were  presented  and 
approved.  When,  on  motion,  it  was 

Resolved,  That  a  committee  of  three,  viz  :  one  from  each 
lodge,  be  appointed  to  draw  up  a  communication  to  be  sent  to 
the  subordinate  lodges,  approving  of  the  proceedings  of  the  com- 
mittee of  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2. 

The  Grand  Committee  then  closed. 

MAURICE  FENNELL,  A.  G.  Secretary. 

His  illness  must  have  been  brief,  for  he  was  at  the  quarterly 
session  in  May.  How  inadequate  the  proceedings  in  view  of  the 
loss  incurred !  But  when  we  consider  the  assembly  he  had  left,  the 
wonder  is  not  so  great.  There  were  but  eight  present  at  the  meet- 
ing on  the  occasion  of  his  death,  and  five  were  absent  and  were 
fined  for  non-attendance  ;  making  in  all  a  show  of  thirteen  persons 
nominally  interested.  As  the  10th  article  of  the  constitution  re- 
quired all  to  be  present  at  "  annual,  quarterly  and  special  sessions," 
under  penalty  of  a  fine  of  fifty  cents,  the  whole  body  was  composed 
of  thirteen  in  all.  In  such  a  body  the  individual  was  everything, 
and  the  aggregate  representatives,  on  ordinary  occasions,  merely 
cyphers.  Whatever  might  have  been  the  feeling  at  the  time,  it  is 
remarkable  that  Wildey,  after  stating  the  object  of  meeting,  did 
not  deliver  the  usual  "  address." 

THE    PRESIDING    GENIUS    OF    THE    ORDER. 

It  is  a  work  of  pleasure  to  portray  the  character  of  this 
favorite  brother,  who,  in  a  limited  circle,  has  made  a  great  im- 
pression upon  our  leading  men.  All  who  have  gone  back 
patiently  to  the  beginning,  whatever  their  previous  opinions, 
return  with  enthusiasm  for  this  early  laborer.  Among  others, 
P.  G.  Sire  Kennedy,  who  had  deeply  studied  the  first  decade,  did 
him  a  sort  of  homage  as  its  presiding  genius.  He  had  formed  in 


248  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

his  mind  an  ideal  of  the  man  that  was  both  striking  and  affect- 
ing. He  thought  him  a  young  man  full  of  promise,  and  above 
his  associations,  yet  held  to  them  by  the  bond  of  a  common  pur- 
pose, and  living  in  a  future  and  brighter  sphere,  of  which  his 
hopes  gave  sure  augury ;  that  he  was  a  student  and  a  scholar, 
transforming  the  dull  prose  of  his  surroundings  into  the  poetry  of 
a  mind  of  taste  and  a  heart  of  sensibility ;  that  when  among  the 
early  band  he  was  above  them,  and  in  his  soaring  thoughts 
found  no  sympathy  among  the  ruder  workmen.  It  may  be  so  ; 
we  confess  the  spell,  for  we  have  felt  it  from  the  first  hour  we 
traced  him  adorning  the  foundations  with  the  chaplets  fitting  to 
crown  the  edifice. 

We  have  imagined  him  reticent,  grave,  yet  gentle  and  winning 
in  his  manners  ;  a  reader  of  the  classics,  and  well  acquainted  with 
the  rich  stores  of  English  literature.  A  man  not  yet  fully  assured 
of  his  own  faculties,  because  he  wrote  and  thought  with  the  ease 
of  superior  men.  A  hero-worshipper  also,  looking  upon  Wildey 
as  a  very  prodigy  of  energy,  and  readily  yielding  the  palm  to  a 
kind  of  power  which  he  had  no  faculty  or  desire  to  wield.  A 
gentleman,  in  fact,  of  rare  wit  and  fancy,  struggling  in  eclipse 
among  the  clouds  of  poverty  ;  a  stranger  who  never  was  fully  at 
home  among  his  fellows ;  whose  aspirations  and  whose  genial  in- 
fluence would  better  suit  these  days  of  opulent  prosperity  than 
the  narrow  limits  of  his  time.  We  have  resented  as  something 
personal  that  he  was  not  the  beloved  disciple  of  the  founder. 

HIS    FAME    IS    ASSURED. 

That  such,  to  some  extent,  will  be  the  sentiment  of  our 
readers,  our  experience  leads  us  fully  to  expect.  Kindred  spirits 
will  be  excited  by  his  story,  to  pay  him  the  tribute  which 
has  been  so  long  and  ungenerously  withheld.  The  G.  Lodge  of 
the  II.  S.,  so  quick  to  seek  out  merit  and  reward  it,  may  devise 
some  means  of  exalting  a  name  so  glorious.  It  may  yet  become 
as  wide-spread  as  Wildey's,  and  the  whole  Order  give  him  their 
applause.  Encampments  and  lodges  may  yet  seek  his  record  for 
a  charter  name.  Degree  lodges  may  rise  to  perpetuate  Entwisle, 
as  they  have  others  of  the  olden  time  ;  above  all,  our  orators  shall 
hang  upon  him  their  richest  eloquence,  to  point  the  morals  they 
have  learned  from  him,  and  a  vast  brotherhood  shall  mourn  over 
the  early  death  of  this  MAN  and  BROTHER. 


JOHN    PAWSON    ENTWISLE.  249 

Wildey,  in  surviving  all  his  early  friends,  had  his  full  reward, 
and  now  wears  the  chaplet  he  so  well  deserved;  but  his  good 
fortune  has  been  the  means  of  concealing  the  merits  of 
other  men,  who,  in  a  large  degree,  gave  his  greatness  its  existence 
and  its  final  triumpi .  In  energy,  in  enthusiasm,  in  executive 
ability,  Wildey  was  truly  great ;  but  in  no  way  was  he  greater  than 
in  the  selection  of  the  counsellors  by  whom  he  was  guided.  His 
earliest  advisers  were  Welch  and  Entwisle ;  to  them,  and  es- 
pecially to  the  latter,  his  hopes  and  fears  were  confided,  and  upon 
his  sagacity  he  relied  upon  all  occasions.  The  early  reforms,  as 
before  stated,  sprung  from  Entwisle's  brain,  and  the  iron  will  and 
matchless  activity  of  the  founder  put  them  in  motion. 

He  sleeps,  but  his  spirit  yet  walks  among  us  and  inspires  the 
work ;  he  sleeps,  but  he  shall  no  longer  be  neglected  and  forgotten. 

u  Yet  what  if  no  light  footstep  here 
In  pilgrim  love  and  awe  repair? — 

So  let  it  be. 

He  sleeps  in  silence,  but  his  sod, 
Unknown  to  man,  is  marked  of  God." 

We  cannot  point  our  readers  to  his  grave,  for  it  is  nameless; 
nor  to  his  epitaph,  for  none  such,  to  our  knowledge,  did 
he  have ;  but  in  these  pages  wre  inscribe  the  name  of  JOHN 
PAWSON  ENTWISLE,  as  upon  a  princely  cenotaph,  as  his  fit  me- 
morial. In  the  twelfth  chapter  we  shall  place  on  the  column, 
between  Welch  and  Eutwisle,  the  old  chieftain,  WILDEY. 


CHAPTER   XI. 

THE    SECRET    PRINCIPLE. 

Say  from  whence 

You  owe  this  strange  intelligence  ?  or  why 
Upon  this  blasted  heath  you  stop  my  way 
With  such  prophetic  greeting  ? 
Speak,  I  charge  you. 

—MACBETH. 

The  subject  of  this  chapter  is  both  delicate  and  difficult.  In 
its  preparation,  a  vast  number  of  authorities  have  been  consulted  : 
history,  general  and  special,  of  the  ancient  knowledge  known  as 
the  "  Mysteries ";  chronicles  of  secret  societies  and  of  their 
arcana,  such  as  signs,  symbols  and  words,  and  the  designs  which 
gave  them  vitality ;  with  many  books  of  various  titles  and 
objects,  containing  facts  or  suggestions  available  for  our  purpose. 
We  may  mention  standard  works  on  Masonry,  essays  and  anony- 
mous contributions,  and  above  all,  that  great  storehouse,  the 
encyclopedias.  Careful  and  continuous  study  has  revealed  but 
little  that  is  certain,  save  only  that  we  were  treading  among 
shadows  and  upon  uncertain  ground.  The  solutions  were  often 
as  mystic  and  difficult  as  the  secrets  they  attempted  to  reveal ; 
dates  of  important  eras  were  often  guessed  at;  societies  and 
sects  ruthlessly  confounded;  and  origins,  principles  and  results, 
though  given  in  a  form  the  most  exact,  were  for  the  most  part 
sketches  more  creditable  to  the  novelist  than  the  historian.  In 
such  a  medley  one  is  soon  lost  and  confounded.  We  found 
indeed,  what  was  absolutely  necessary,  the  existence  of  the  prin- 
ciple and  its  ample  exercise,  writh  results  of  an  amazing  char- 
acter, which  answer  the  question  of  its  importance  to  mankind. 

The  first  intention  was  to  give  the  history  and  development 
of  the  secret  principle  somewhat  in  detail.  But  this  would 
require  elaborate  treatment,  and  a  whole  library  of  books.  A 
glance  will  show  the  vastness  of  the  subject ;  thousands  of  vol- 
umes have  been  devoted  to  it,  and  it  will  be  found  to  affect  every 
race  and  country,  every  form  of  knowledge,  and  the  whole  prac- 
tical framework  of  society.  The  investigator  will  discover  its 

(250) 


THE    SECRET    PRINCIPLE.  251 

traces  among  all  nations,  and  its  outgrowth  has  shaped  the  faith 
and  practice  of  the  world.  Its  history  would  be  the  history  of 
man  from  the  beginning.  But  even  within  narrow  limits,  the 
difficulty  of  anything  like  a  true  outline  is  insuperable.  For 
instance,  Egypt  is  the  oldest  land  of  chronicles,  and  held  in  its 
bosom  the  most  celebrated  mysteries.  Yet  the  origin,  nature 
and  secrets  of  her  rites  are  buried  in  her  catacombs.  Greece 
became  the  heir  of  Egypt,  and  improved  upon  the  mystic  inheri- 
tance ;  but  even  here  uncertainty  alone  is  certain.  If  the  secrets 
of  the  Grecian  rites  have  been  revealed,  where  and  to  whom 
shall  we  look  for  the  revelation  ?  The  historians  give  us  one 
version,  the  philosophers  another,  and  the  poets  one  entirely 
different.  Either  all  the  exposures  are  false,  or  the  true  one  can- 
not be  indicated.  Of  the  three,  one  may  choose  which  he  may, 
and  yet  come  short  of  the  true  solution.  May  we  not  then  infer 
that  much  of  mystery  was  buried  in  the  ruins  of  Delphi,  or  lost 
before  the  printing  press  could  give  it  circulation  ? 

But,  after  all,  secrets  are  nothing  save  as  they  embody  a  tan- 
gible something.  Take  the  case  of  the  Christian  religion :  when 
type  and  allegory  were  embodied  in  the  Messidi,  they  were  cast 
aside.  Hence  Christianity  is  ignorant  of  Jewish  rites,  and  cannot 
explain  the  mystery  of  the  Shekinah.  The  substance  supplants 
the  shadow,  and  the  fulfilment  the  prophecy.  It  follows  that  the 
old  secrets  are  but  little  known  and  cannot  be  fully  pointed  out. 
When  the  effect  ceased,  the  cause  had  first  ceased ;  so  that  we 
have  no  firm  reliance  on  any  secrets  save  such  as  have  been  pre- 
served in  some  formal  organization.  For  all  such  were  more  or 
less  arbitrary,  and  took  their  significance  from  their  connection 
with  natural  relations  and  conditions.  The  relations  remain, 
but  for  the  most  part  the  forms  of  their  progressive  conditions 
have  been  dropped.  In  a  wrord,  the  secret  or  formula  is  absorbed 
by  the  substance  it  has  clothed  ;  or  having  served  its  purpose,  is 
thrown  aside  for  others  more  suitable  for  the  later  stages  of  the 
same  process.  But  the  need  for  the  secret  principle  is  coeval  and 
co-extensive  with-  the  race  as  part  of  the  world's  spiritual  heritage. 
As  such,  it  will  prevail  everywhere,  and  everywhere  work  its 
mighty  influence,  undeterred  by  the  scientist  or  his  philosophy. 

MYSTERY. 

The  region  of  the  mysterious  is  enchanted  ground.  On  all 
sides  the  real  is  bounded  by  clouds  and  darkness,  among  whose 


252  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

boundless  recesses  the  imagination  disports  itself  on  the  wings  of 
a  wild  and  exuberant  curiosity.  Its  territories  have  been  mapped 
by  the  fancy,  and  invisible  inhabitants  made  to  appear  and  play 
their  role  in  fictitious  annals.  To  furnish  motives  for  these  in- 
habitants, human  passions  have  been  invoked,  human  relations 
have  been  assigned  them  ;  they  have  been  given  a  genealogy  and 
divided  into  families.  Invisible  agents  have  been  sketched  in 
the  pages  of  biography,  and  history  has  aspired  to  furnish  the 
events  of  an  unseen  world.  Nor  are  the  invisibles  confined  to 
the  outer  world,  but  in  every  zone  we  greet  them  as  visitors 
among  earthly  dwelling-places.  As  they  become  familiar  to  us, 
we  claim  them  as  denizens ;  they  inhabit  the  ocean,  and  roam  the 
valleys  and  the  mountains ;  they  murmur  in  the  streams  and 
speak  loudly  in  the  winds.  Nor  are  they  careless  of  the  human 
race ;  to  the  contrary,  they  are  its  masters  or  its  slaves,  and  mix 
in  all  that  concerns  it  from  the  cradle  to  the  grave. 

But  in  a  specific  manner  the  common  curiosity  undertakes  the 
solution  of  far  different  phenomena.  Nature  is  a  mystery  ;  ori- 
gins, first  principles,  simple  elements  are  all  unknown,  and  man, 
the  curious  inquirer,  is  the  greatest  mystery  of  all.  A  restless 
desire  to  know  awakens  all  the  activities  of  the  human  mind ; 
science  ever  toils  to  discover  and  philosophy  to  explain.  Thus 
arise  theories  of  creation  and  development,  and  the  secrets  of  the 
globe  arc  sought  in  cosmogonies  of  every  variety.  The  crucible 
is  ever  heated,  the  telescope  and  microscope  ever  pointed,  the  pick 
and  the  hammer  ever  plying ;  facts  are  compared  with  facts,  exper- 
iments with  experiments,  theories  with  theories,  until  we  are 
bewildered  in  the  effort  to  invade  the  sanctuary  of  the  unknown. 
This  passion  has  ruled  the  race,  and  will  continue  to  do  so  to  the 
end  of  time. 

THE    ANCIENT    MYSTERIES. 

So  universal  a  principle  could  not  fail  to  exert  a  mighty  influ- 
ence among  all  peoples  and  in  every  age.  At  all  times  and  in 
endless  forms  it  has  been  invoked,  for  the  worst  as  well  as  the 
best  of  ends.  Its  grand  appearance  was  under  the  style  of  the 
ancient  mysteries.  When  first  known,  this  was  already  the  type 
of  all  that  was  great  and  wonderful.  It  comes  to  us  from  the 
earliest  antiquity,  claiming  even  then  to  be  ancient,  and  having 
already  obtained  sovereign  ascendancy.  Out  of  it  sprung  young 


THE    SECRET    PRINCIPLE.  253 

science  and  philosophy.  Its  central  idea  was  the  analysis  of  the 
unknown,  chiefly  in  the  domain  of  nature ;  that  physical  structure 
with  its  indescribable  garniture,  and  its  invisible  but  certain  sym- 
pathy with  the  inquirer.  But  it  also  embraced  all  known  phe- 
nomena, spreading  out  in  all  directions ;  wherever  a  secret  was 
found,  it  was  made  the  foundation  of  a  system  to  which  a  temple 
was  dedicated.  Man,  in  the  primitive  state,  could  not  fail  to  be 
impressed  by  his  moral  and  physical  dependence,  and  instinctively 
reached  out  for  n  higher  and  stronger  support.  The  theology  of 
the  mysteries  taught  him  the  unity  of  God,  and  the  doctrine  of  a 
future  state  of  rewards  and  punishments.  Its  morality  taught 
the  law  of  love,  and  its  science,  in  some  sort,  unveiled  a  portion 
of  the  arcana  of  the  material  world.  Upon  these  and  the  theory 
of  an  eternal  life,  "as  universal,  all-powerful  and  all-sustaining," 
did  they  repose,  as  unfailing  oracles. 

Of  these  first  origins  we  know  absolutely  nothing  beyond  the 
genesis  of  the  Jewish  history.  Some  over-zealous  writers  upon 
Free  Masonry  provoke  a  smile  when  they  make  that  institution 
to  antedate  the  human  family.  The  argument  is  simple,  "  light 
was  before  man,  and  light  is  the  symbol  and  scope  of  that  Order." 
We  are  inclined  to  class  them  with  some  of  our  own  visionaries, 
who  date  Odd  Fellowship  with  the  creation  of  man  "because 
Adam  was  the  first  Odd  Fellow."  But  as  we  are  not  dealing 
wholesale  in  fable,  we  merely  mention  these  suggestions  as  in- 
dicative, at  least,  of  the  zeal  of  those  who  have  made  them. 

ITS    ANTIQUITY. 

The  secret  principle  preceded  the  earliest  empires,  and  was 
coeval  with  Indian  mythology  and  the  Magi  or  priests  of  Persia, 
and  flourished,  says  Aristotle,  "  for  many  years  before  the  rise  of 
the  kingdom  of  Egypt."  But  its  antiquity  does  not  rest  alone 
upon  external  evidence ;  it  was  embodied  in  formal  initiatory 
ceremonies  and  august  symbols.  Indeed,  we  have  no  record  of  a 
people  among  whom  the  knowledge  on  which  it  was  founded  was 
not  taught  "  as  the  ground  and  genesis  of  all  things :  the  whole 
state ;  the  rise,  the  workings  and  the  progress  of  all  nature ; 
together  with  the  unity  that  pervades  heaven  and  earth."  Reli- 
gion as  the  primal  element  in  man,  and  that  by  which  he  was 
most  influenced,  was  chiefly  considered.  But  the  hidden  princi- 
ples of  belief  were  seldom,  if  ever,  communicated  to  the  people ; 


254  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

they  were  confined  to  the  priests,  and  the  favored  few  who  were 
admitted  to  their  confidence.  Thus  arose  the  division  of  the 
doctrines  into  the  exoteric  and  the  esoteric,  the  former  consisting 
of  those  outward  forms  and  fables  which  were  current  among  all, 
and  the  latter  embodying  the  principles  underlying  them  and 
from  which  they  sprung.  These  were  committed  only  to  such  as 
by  their  rank,  influence,  wealth,  or  intelligence  were  the  natural 
heads  and  rulers  of  the  multitude. 

THE    DOCTRINE    AND   KITES. 

The  first  step  was  usually  considered  the  entrance  by  the  can- 
didate upon  a  new  life ;  a  word,  therefore,  significant  of  that  fact 
was  used  by  all  nations.  This  word  in  Latin  is  initia,  from 
which  we  have  derived  the  word  initiation.  The  ceremonies 
consisted,  in  general,  of  rites  of  purification  and  expiation,  of  sac- 
rifices and  processions,  of  ecstatic  songs  and  dances,  of  nocturnal 
festivals  fit  to  impress  the  imagination,  and  of  spectacles  designed 
to  excite  the  emotions  of  terror  and  trust,  sorrow  and  joy,  hope 
and  despair.  The  principal  subjects  of  the  representation  were  the 
legends  of  particular  divinities,  their  abode  and  passion  on  the 
earth,  their  descent  into  Hades,  and  their  return  and  resurrection  ; 
thus  symbolizing  both  human  destiny  and  the  order  of  nature. 
The  rites  were  chiefly  symbolic  acts  and  spectacles,  yet  sacred 
mystical  words,  formulas,  fragments  of  liturgies  or  hymns  wrere 
also  employed.  There  were  also  certain  objects  with  which 
occult  meanings  were  associated ;  these  were  carefully  imparted 
to  the  initiate,  or  wrere  used  in  the  ascending  scale  of  after  pro- 
motion. Such  as  Phallus j  Cteis,  Cyceon,  Cistus,  Calathus,  Thyr- 
sus,  according  to  the  different  mysteries ;  which  severally  mean 
the  male  organ  of  generation,  the  serpent,  the  drum  of  the  ear  or 
tympanum,  a  rock  rose,  a  basket  made  of  osiers  or  reeds,  and  a 
staff"  entwined  with  ivy,  but  whose  mystic  significance  no  one  has 
been  able  to  explain.  Whatever  their  symbolic  meaning,  their 
use  was  manifestly  as  drapery  for  deeper  things,  or  as  the  keys  to 
more  precious  possessions. 

THE    ELEUSINIAN    MYSTERIES. 

The  study  of  the  profound  fascinates  the  mind  and  leads  to 
invention  and  discovery.  The  inspiration  of  such  themes  touches 


THE    SECRET    PRINCIPLE.  255 

the  deeper  nature  and  develops  the  nobler  powers.  "What  wonder 
then  that  the  able  and  historic  ancients,  who  have  given  us  the 
most,  if  not  all,  of  our  firmest  bases  of  science,  were  devotees  of 
the  mysteries  ?  "  Happy/'  says  Pindar,  "  is  lie  who  has  beheld 
them,  and  descends  beneath  the  hollow  earth ;  he  knows  the  end, 
he  knows  the  divine  origin  of  life."  Thus  the  Eleminian,  the 
most  venerable  of  Grecian  rites,  was  greeted  with  universal 
homage.  Among  its  brotherhood  assembled  the  most  distin- 
guished poets,  philosophers,  historians,  and  statesmen,  whose 
names  have  survived  the  mystery  itself.  The  fundamental  legend 
on  which  the  ritual  was  founded,  was  the  search  of  the  goddess 
Ceres  for  her  daughter  Proserpine,  her  sorrows  and  her  joys,  her 
descent  into  Hades,  and  her  return  into  the  realm  of  light. 
Again  the  legend  dwells  on  the  changes  of  the  seed  of  corn  under 
the  figure  of  the  loss  of  Proserpine,  and  her  ultimate  return  to 
her  searching  mother ;  vicissitudes  which  symbolize  the  course 
of  nature  and  the  destiny  of  the  soul.  These  are  matters  of  sig- 
nificance worthy  the  attention  of  such  master-spirits.  To  them 
nature,  in  its  sublimity,  wras  the  mirror  of  the  infinite  Creator, 
and  of  His  attributes  of  wisdom,  power  and  goodness.  They  felt 
a  craving  for  a  higher  destiny,  and  the  spiritual  wants  of  their 
nature  led  them  to  every  oracle  and  every  altar  to  appease  the 
appetite.  The  very  language,  so  beautiful  and  gorgeous,  was  full 
of  dreamy  allegorical  expressions,  well  calculated  for  secrecy. 
This  was  peculiarly  true  of  the  eastern  nations ;  among  whom 
the  parable  and  the  prophecy  were  indigenous,  and  the  mind  rioted 
in  metaphor  and  symbolic  imagery.  The  transition  to  mystic  sys- 
tems was  natural  and  easy.  Among  these  the  earliest  seems  to 
have  been  that  of  the  Magi,  the  disciples  of  Zoroaster,  to  which  may 
be  added  the  Brahmans  and  Gymnosophists  of  India.  These  had 
a  regular  initiation,  and  a  graduation  from  the  lower  to  the  higher 
degrees. 

THE    EGYPTIAN    SCHOOL. 

The  Egyptian  school,  however,  which  followed,  surpassed  all 
its  predecessors  in  the  influence  it  exerted  and  the  light  which  it 
generated  and  dispersed.  The  authorities  fix  the  origin  of  the 
mysteries  anterior  to  this  time,  which,  according  to  the  ordinary 
chronology,  was  about  1900  years  before  Christ.  Their  original 
design,  as  we  have  stated  it,  is  generally  conceded.  Entering 


250  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Egypt  from  Media,  Assyria,  Persia  and  contemporaneous  peoples, 
they  seem  to  have  found  a  congenial  soil.  Here  they  attained 
power  and  influence,  and  reached  the  zenith  of  their  greatness. 
Egypt,  before  that  time  of  but  little  estimation,  soon  began  to 
rise  to  distinction,  and  its  fame  tilled  the  then  known  world.  The 
chief  men  from  contiguous  nations  swarmed  to  a  land  so  renowned 
for  wisdom,  and  which,  by  its  laws  and  religion,  had  begun  to 
give  civilization  to  the  vast  Delta  of  the  Nile.  From  that  time 
it  acquired  a  name,  not  less  illustrious  among  the  nations  of  anti- 
quity than  now,  at  a  distance  of  thousands  of  years.  Such  wras 
the  height  to  which  it  reached  in  the  arts  and  sciences,  that  some 
believe  that  it  had  all  the  essential  knowledge  now  possessed  by 
mankind.  Others  have  argued  from  such  proficiency,  the  singular 
doctrine  that  more  learning  has  been  lost  than  the  world  at  pre- 
sent contains;  in  other  words,  that  the  modern  civilization  is  but 
a  modification  of  the  ancient  civilization.  Certainly  we  may 
agree  with  them  in  many  particulars,  for  civilization  is  an  ideal, 
which  no  generation  can  realize ;  and  yet  so  much  progress  was 
made  by  our  predecessors,  that  indeed  it  seems,  on  inquiry,  as  if 
there  was  "  nothing  new  under  the  sun."  "We  cannot  stop  to 
discuss  so  grave  a  theory.  But  it  must  be  confessed  that  the 
works  and  attainments  of  the  Egyptians  can  only  be  explained 
by  placing  them  in  the  front  rank  of  nations.  To  this  day  their 
very  ruins  are  the  wonder  of  the  world.  Temples,  obelisks  and 
pyramids  remain  to  attest  their  greatness  and  shame  the  littleness 
of  succeeding  generations.  They  not  only  challenge  admiration, 
but  awaken  profound  regret  that  the  secret  of  such  skill  and  sci- 
ence should  have  been  lost  in  the  decay  of  that  Colossus  of  ancient 
history. 

Thebes,  Memphis  and  Heliopolis  were  citie.s  of  regal  splendor, 
where  learning  had  its  seats,  where  royalty  held  its  court,  and 
where  the  mysteries  were  installed  as  oracles  of  wisdom.  Egypt 
arose  in  the  life-time  of  Peleg,  and  reached  its  zenith  within  a 
hundred  years  of  the  death  of  Abraham.  Institutions  soon  be- 
came popular  whose  arcana  were  only  attainable  by  special  ini- 
tiates. Their  theology  and  philosophy  were  in  full  accord,  and 
combined  to  teach  the  unity  of  God  and  the  immortality  of  the 
soul.  Their  mysteries  were  of  two  kinds,  the  greater  and  the  less, 
the  former  being  those  of  Osiris  and  Serapis,  the  latter  those  of 
Jsis.  Those  of  Osiris  were  celebrated  at  the  autumnal  equinox, 


THE    SECRET    PRINCIPLE.  257 

those  of  Serapis  at  the  summer  solstice,  and  those  of  Isis  at  the 
vernal  equinox.  The  doctrines  taught  were  divided  into  the 
two  classes  of  the  exoteric  and  the  esoteric.  Osiris  symbolized 
the  sun  as  the  image  of  the  great  ruler,  and  was  afterwards 
in  the  Greek  mythology  represented  by  Apollo.  Isis  was 
the  moon,  symbol  of  the  universal  mother.  According  to  Plu- 
tarch and  Tacitus,  Ptolemy,  warned  by  a  dream,  sent  to  Sinope 
for  a  colossal  statue,  which,  on  its  arrival  at  Alexandria,  was  de- 
clared to  represent  the  god  Serapis.  The  temple  of  Serapheum 
was  built  at  Alexandria  for  the  reception  of  the  statue,  and  was 
the  last  hold  of  the  Pagans  in  that  city  after  the  introduction  of 
Christianity.  Gibbon  describes  it  as  magnificent :  "the  conse- 
crated buildings  were  surrounded  by  a  quadrangular  portico;  the 
stately  halls  and  exquisite  statues  displayed  the  triumph  of  the 
arts ;  and  the  treasures  of  ancient  learning  were  preserved  in  the 
famous  Alexandrian  library,  which  had  arisen  with  new  splendor 
from  its  ashes."  In  the  year  A.  D.  389,  the  grand  statue  was 
involved  in  the  ruin  of  his  temple  and  religion. 

Isis  was  the  first,  Serapis  the  second,  and  Osiris  the  third 
of  the  Egyptian  rites.  The  theory  of  these  rites,  if  we  may  so 
speak  of  them,  is  shadowed  forth  by  Apuleius  in  his  "  Golden 
Ass,"  which  describes  them  under  the  disguise  of  a  fable.  "  Be- 
hold, Lucius,  I,  moved  by  thy  prayers,  am  present  with  thee ;  I, 
who  am  nature,  the  parent  of  things,  the  queen  of  all  the  elements, 
the  primordial  progeny  of  the  ages,  the  supreme  of  divinities,  the 
sovereign  of  the  spirits  of  the  dead,  the  first  of  the  celestials,  the 
first  and  universal  substance,  the  uniform  and  multiform  aspect 
of  the  uncreated  essence ;  I,  who  rule  by  my  nod  the  luminous 
summits  of  the  heavens,  the  breezes  of  the  sea,  and  the  silence  of 
the  realms  beneath,  and  whose  one  divinity  the  whole  orb  of  the 
earth  venerates  under  a  manifold  form,  by  different  rites  and  a 
variety  of  appellations.  Hence  the  early  Phrygians  call  me  Pes- 
sinuntica,  mother  of  the  gods ;  the  Attic  aborigines,  Cecropian 
Minerva  ;  the  floating  Cyprians,  Paphian  Venus;  the  arrow-bear- 
ing Cretans,  Diana  Dictynna ;  the  three-tongued  Sicilians,  Sty- 
gian Proserpine ;  and  the  Eleusinians,  the  ancient  goddess  Ceres. 
Some  also  call  me  Juno,  others  Bellona,  others  Hecate,  and  others 
Rhamnusia.  The  Ethiopians,  the  Arii  and  the  Egyptians,  skilled 
in  ancient  learning,  honor  me  with  rites  peculiarly  appropriate, 
and  call  me  by  my  true  name,  Queen  Isis." 
17 


258  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

THE    INITIATION. 

The  place  of  initiation  was  a  pyramid  erected  over  subterra- 
nean caverns,  the  great  pyramid  being  considered  the  tomb  of 
Osiris.  The  candidate,  conducted  by  a  guide,  was  led  to  a  deepr 
dark  well  or  shaft  in  the  pyramid,  and,  provided  with  a  torch,  he 
descended  into  it  by  means  of  a  ladder  affixed  to  the  side.  Arrived 
at  the  bottom,  he  saw  two  doors,  one  of  them  barred,  the  other 
yielding  to  the  touch  of  his  hand.  Passing  through  it,  he  beheld 
a  winding  gallery,  whilst  the  door  behind  him  shut  with  a  clang 
that  reverberated  through  the  vaults.  Inscriptions  like  the  fol- 
lowing met  his  eye :  "  Whoso  shall  pass  along  this  road  alone,  and 
without  looking  back,  shall  be  purified  by  fire,  water  and  air ; 
and  overcoming  the  fear  of  death,  shall  issue  from  the  bowels  of 
the  earth  to  the  light  of  day,  preparing  his  soul  to  receive  the 
mysteries  of  Isis."  Proceeding  onward,  the  candidate  arrived  at 
another  iron  gate,  guarded  by  three  armed  men,  whose  shining 
helmets  were  surmounted  by  emblematic  animals,  the  Cerberus  of 
Orpheus.  Here  the  candidate  had  offered  to  him  the  last  chance 
of  returning,  if  so  inclined.  Electing  to  go  forward,  he  under- 
went the  trial  by  fire,  by  passing  through  a  hall  filled  with  inflam- 
mable substances  in  a  state  of  combustion,  and  forming  a  bower 
of  fire.  The  floor  was  covered  with  a  grating  of  red-hot  iron  bars, 
leaving,  however,  narrow  interstices  where  he  might  safely  place 
his  feet.  Having  surmounted  this  obstacle,  he  had  to  encounter 
the  trial  by  water.  A  wide  and  dark  canal,  fed  by  the  waters  of 
the  Nile,  arrested  his  progress.  Placing  the  flickering  lamp  upon 
his  head,  he  plunged  into  the  canal  and  swam  to  the  opposite 
bank,  where  the  greatest  trial,  that  by  air,  awaited  him.  He 
landed  upon  a  platform  leading  to  an  ivory  door,  bounded  by  two 
walls  of  brass,  into  each  of  which  was  inserted  an  immense  wheel 
of  the  same  metal.  He  in  vain  attempted  to  open  the  door, 
when,  espying  two  large  iron  rings  affixed  to  it,  he  took  hold  of 
them ;  but  suddenly  the  platform  sunk  from  under  him,  a  chilling 
blast  of  wind  extinguished  his  lamp,  the  two  brazen  wheels 
revolved  with  formidable  rapidity  and  stunning  noise,  whilst  he 
remained  suspended  by  the  two  rings  over  the  fathomless  abyss. 
But  ere  he  was  exhausted,  the  platform  returned,  the  ivory  door 
opened,  and  he  saw  before  him  a  magnificent  temple,  brilliantly 
illuminated,  and  filled  with  the  priests  of  Isis,  clothed  in  the  mys- 
tic insignia  of  their  offices,  the  hierophant  at  their  head. 


THE    SECRET    PRINCIPLE.  259 

But  the  ceremony  did  not  end  here.  The  candidate  was 
subjected  to  a  series  of  fastings,  which  gradually  increased  for 
nine  times  nine  days.  During  this  period  a  rigorous  silence  was 
imposed  upon  him,  which  if  he  preserved,  he  was  at  length  fully 
initiated  into  the  esoteric  doctrines  of  Isis.  He  was  led  before 
the  triple  statue  of  Isis,  Osiris  and  Horus — another  symbol  of 
the  sun — wThere  he  swore  never  to  publish  the  things  revealed  to 
him  in  the  sanctuary.  He  first  drank  the  waters  of  Lethe,  pre- 
sented to  him  by  the  high  priest,  to  forget  all  he  ever  heard  in  his 
unregenerate  state ;  and  afterwards  the  water  of  Mnemosyne,  to 
remember  all  the  lessons  of  wisdom  imparted  to  him.  He  was 
next  introduced  into  the  most  secret  part  of  the  sacred  edifice, 
where  he  was  instructed  in  the  meaning  of  the  symbols  there 
contained.  Last  of  all  he  was  publicly  introduced  as  a  person 
wfco  had  been  initiated  into  the  mysteries  of  Isis,  the  first  degree 
of  the  Egyptian  rites. 

From  this  we  may  obtain  some  idea  of  the  nature  of  the 
forms  by  which  the  ancient  mysteries  were  explained. 

In  the  third  degree  the  candidate  received  a  name  taken  from 
that  of  Deity,  and  the  dogma  of  the  unity  of  God  was  imparted  to  hi  in . 
It  was  not  indeed  a  personal  God,  but  in  the  sanctuary  all  forms 
were  reduced  to  unity,  and  the  many  idols  to  the  one  divinity, 
primeval  power  and  intelligence. 

CHINA,    JAPAN,    BRITAIN,    GAUL    AND    SCANDINAVIA. 


L  *        U  -£Y  -I   -fa.  XI  «        JJ  J.V  1  J.  J  V  J.  -L>  • 


These  mysteries  spreading  through  Greece,  Phoenicia  and 
Asia  Minor,  descended  to  Rome,  and  were  greatly  refined  in  their 
passage.  Thence  they  went  to  Britain,  and  in  the  decline  of 
Rome  spread  in  a  modified  form  over  modern  Europe.  The 
object  of  the  latter  organizations  was  to  subvert  polytheism  and 
to  vindicate  the  unity  of  God.  It  is  to  Greece  that  we  owe  the 
perfection  of  the  system ;  but  wre  will  first  dispose  of  those  which 
were  auxiliary,  or  independent  of  Egyptian  origin. 

The  Chinese  at  the  beginning  had  no  system  of  mystery. 
This  continued  until  Confucius,  and  for  a  long  time  afterwards. 
Their  form  of  doctrine  was  philosophical,  and  they  worshipped 
an  invisible  God.  But  becoming  idolatrous,  this  simplicity  was 
lost  in  a  metaphysical  mystery.  The  chief  end  of  initiation  was 
an  absorption  into  the  deity  O-Mi-To  Fo.  Omito  meaning  "  im- 
measurable," and  Fo  only  another  name  for  Buddha.  Buddha 


260  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

was  a  wise  and  great  teacher,  who  at  his  death  received  divine 
honors,  and  whose  legend  forms  the  whole  body  of  the  doctrine. 
The  last  sentence  of  the  founder  was,  "  All  compounds  are  per- 
ishable," a  positive  truth  capable  of  demonstration.  The  final 
object  is  the  deliverance  of  the  soul  from  pain  and  illusion.  The 
endless  rotation  of  metempsychosis  is  broken,  by  preventing  the 
soul  from  being  born  again.  This  is  attained  by  purification 
from  even  the  desire  of  existence. 

The  Japanese  have  a  mixed  philosophical  and  religious 
system.  Their  philosophy  is  founded  on  astronomy,  and  their 
religion  the  worship  of  an  incarnate  God.  The  Grand  Lama  is 
that  God,  but  the  true  doctrine  refers  simply  to  the  origin  of  the 
world.  Thus  none  of  these  had  the  scope  of  the  ancient  mys- 
teries of  Egypt. 

To  the  Druids  alone  has  been  given  the  name  of  the  Magi  of 
the  West.  They  had  much  the  same  meaning  as  the  Brahmans  and 
the  Persian  Magi.  They  had  also  the  esoteric  and  exoteric  religious 
doctrines.  Their  rites  were  practiced  in  Britain  and  Gaul,  the 
Island  of  Anglesea  being  their  chief  seat.  The  system  embraced 
all  the  philosophy  and  religion  then  known  in  those  localities. 
The  periods  of  initiation  were  fixed  by  the  course  and  position  of 
the  sun.  It  was  a  maxim  with  them  that  water  was  the  first 
principle  of  all  things,  and  existed  before  the  creation  in  unsullied 
purity.  They  also  taught  one  Supreme  Being,  a  future  state  of 
rewards  and  punishments,  the  immortality  of  the  soul,  and  a 
metempsychosis.  They  seem  to  have  possessed  much  scientific 
knowledge,  and  plainly  followed  the  doctrines  of  Pythagoras. 
The  final  secret  was  that  of  death  and  a  resurrection ;  the  candi- 
date was  first  placed  in  the  pastes  or  coffin,  where  his  symbolical 
death  represented  the  death  of  Hu,  or  the  sun  ;  and  his  restoration, 
in  the  third  degree,  symbolized  the  resurrection  of  the  same 
luminary. 

Their  temples  were  generally  situated  on  an  eminence  and  in 
dense  groves  of  oaks :  circular,  because  a  circle  is  emblematic 
of  the  universe ;  oval,  in  allusion  to  the  mundane  egg,  from  which, 
according  to  the  traditions  of  many  nations,  the  universe,  or  ac- 
cording to  others,  our  first  parents  issued ;  serpentine,  because  a 
serpent  was  the  symbol  of  Hu,  the  Druidical  Osiris ;  cruciform, 
because  the  cross  is  an  emblem  of  regeneration.  Their  only  canopy 
was  the  sky,  and  they  were  constructed  of  unhewn  stones,  their 


THE    SECRET    PRINCIPLE.  261 

number  having  reference  to  astronomical  calculations.  The 
three  principal  temples  of  this  description  in  Britain,  were  those 
of  Stonehenge  and  Abury  in  the  south,  and  that  of  Shap  in 
Cumberland.  Where  stone  was  scarce,  rude  banks  of  earth  were 
substituted,  and  the  temple  was  formed  of  a  high  vallum  and 
ditch.  The  adytum  or  ark  of  the  mysteries  was  called  a  cromlech, 
and  was  used  as  the  sacred  pastas,  or  place  of  regeneration.  It 
consisted  of  three  upright  stones  as  supporters  of  a  broad,  flat 
stone,  laid  across  them  on  the  top,  so  as  to  form  a  small  cell  or 
stone  coffin.  The  place  was  often  subterranean ;  the  immense 
grotto  at  Castleton  in  Derbyshire,  called  by  Stukely  the  Stygian 
Cave,  as  well  as  the  giants'  caves  at  Luckingtoii  and  Badminster 
in  Wilts,  certainly  were  used  for  this  purpose. 

The  Scandinavian  mysteries  had  their  empire  in  the  vast 
forest  regions  of  the  north  of  Europe.  Their  whole  doctrine  and 
ritual  bear  marks  of  the  influence  of  a  rude,  but  correct  astronomy. 
From  this  source  the  Druids  learned  to  erect  the  huge  monu- 
ments of  rock  which  still  remain,  to  form  the  gloomy  pastos 
of  stone,  to  hew  caverns  out  of  the  solid  rock  for  the  rites 
of  their  mystery,  and  to  use  natural  grottoes  for  the  purposes  of 
initiation.  The  candidate  personated  the  sun ;  being  asked  his 
name,  he  replied,  "  Gangler,"  that  is,  the  wanderer,  or  he  that 
performs  a  revolution,  distributing  blessings  to  mankind.  In  the 
palace,  with  a  boundless  roof,  he  discovers  three  seats ;  on  the 
lowest  is  the  King,  called  Har,  sublime ;  on  the  central  one,  Jafu- 
har,  the  equal  of  the  sublime ;  on  the  highest,  Tredie,  the  number 
three.  These  personages  are  those  the  neophyte  beheld  in  the 
Eleusinian  initiation,  the  hierophant,  the  daduchus  or  torch- 
bearer,  and  the  epibomite  or  attendant  on  the  altar ;  these  he  sees 
in  Freemasonry,  the  Master  and  the  Senior  and  Junior  Wardens, 
personifications  of  the  sun,  the  moon,  and  the  Demiurge  or 
Master  of  the  Lodge.  In  the  instruction  the  candidate  was  told 
that  the  greatest  and  most  ancient  of  the  gods  is  called  Alfader 
(the  father  of  all),  and  has  twelve  epithets  which  recall  the  twelve 
attributes  of  the  sun,  the  twelve  constellations,  the  twelve  superior 
gods  of  Egypt,  Greece  and  Rome.  The  priests  were  called 
Drottes  ;  their  number  also  was  twelve,  who  were  alike  priests 
and  judges ;  and  from  this  order  proceeded  that  bulwark  of  the 
citizen,  a  trial  before  twelve  men,  by  the  name  of  a  jury,  under 
the  common  law  of  England. 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  grand  periods  of  initiation  were  quarterly,  and  determined 
by  the  course  of  the  sun,  and  his  arrival  at  the  equinoctial  and 
solstitial  points.  But  the  time  of  the  annual  celebration  was 
May-eve,  when  fires  were  kindled  on  all  the  cairns  and  cromlechs 
in  the  island,  which  burned  all  night  to  introduce  the  sports  of 
May-day ;  whence  all  the  national  festivity  still  practiced  on  that 
day  dates  its  origin.  But  the  festival  of  the  25th  of  December 
was  celebrated  with  great  fires,  lighted  on  the  tops  of  the  hills, 
to  announce  the  birth-day  of  the  god  Sol.  This  festival  was  not 
kept  by  the  Druids  only,  but  throughout  the  ancient  world,  from 
India  to  Ultima  Thule.  The  festival  of  the  summer  solstice  was 
kept  on  the  24th  of  June.  Both  days  are  still  kept  as  festivals 
in  the  Christian  church,  the  former  as  Christmas,  the  latter  as 
St.  John's  Day,  but  of  course  with  another  and  a  deeper  mean- 
ing. The  use  of  evergreens  in  churches  at  Christmas-time  is  the 
perpetuation,  with  a  holier  meaning,  of  an  ancient  Druidical 
custom. 

None  of  their  doctrines  had  general  diffusion,  and  have  left 
no  living  trace  among  Christian  nations. 

GREECE. 

We  will  now  return  to  Greece,  whose  influence  has  affected 
every  phase  of  modern  civilization.  Greece,  as  before  stated, 
borrowed  from  Egypt,  but  added  richly  to  the  original  stock.  To 
give  an  index  to  Grecian  mysteries  would  require  volumes.  But 
we  have  selected  the  pride  and  glory  of  that  system  as  an  ex- 
ample of  the  whole.  Of  all  the  mysteries,  the  Eleusinian  was  the 
greatest.  It  was  a  religious  festival,  in  honor  of  the  goddess 
Demeter  or  Ceres,  the  patroness  of  agriculture,  and  the  represent- 
ative of  the  procreative  power  of  nature.  It  is  thought  to  have 
been  intended  to  give  an  ideal  meaning  to  the  coarse  fancies  of 
the  popular  religion. 

To  the  mystery  of  Eleusis  we  must  add  the  Dionysian  myste- 
ries, as  the  former,  in  its  rites,  seems  always  to  have  included  the 
latter.  They  also  came  from  Egypt,  and  were  in  honor  of  Bac- 
chus. The  legend  of  the  murder  of  Bacchus  or  Dionysius  by  the 
Titans,  can  easily  be  identified  with  Osiris,  who  was  slain  by  his 
brother  Typhon.  In  these  rites  the  initiate  was  duly  prepared 
and  properly  clothed.  He  was  then  delivered  to  the  conductor, 
who  gave  the  mystic  warning,  "Depart  hence,  all  ye  profane!" 


THE    SECRET    PRINCIPLE.  263 

He  then  made  "  a  rude  and  fearful  march  through  night  and 
darkness."  In  this  state  of  terror  he  long  remained.  Here  was 
enacted  the  funereal  part  of  the  rites — the  death  of  the  god,  the 
search  for  his  body,  and  the  discovery  of  the  remains.  The  mourn- 
ing is  now  turned  into  joy,  amid  shouts  of  "  We  have  found  it — 
let  us  rejoice  together!"  The  candidate  was  then  shown  the  tor- 
ments of  the  wicked  and  the  rewards  of  the  righteous.  The  rites 
were  explained,  and  he  was  furnished  tokens  of  recognition.  The 
whole  concluded  with  the  pronunciation  of  the  mystic  words, 
J^onx  Ompax,  whose  meaning  has  never  been  explained. 

Here  we  may  perceive  the  primitive  belief  that  men  are  the 
offspring  of  the  earth  and  the  heavens,  and  the  worship  of  the 
sun,  the  personal  presence  of  the  heavens  as  Savior  Lord,  and  of 
the  earth  as  sorrowing  Lady  and  Mother.  The  whole  pantheon 
seems  to  have  been  organized  about  these  two  central  shrines.  We 
think  we  can  show  the  same  idea  detached  from  symbols,  in  the 
connection  of  one  form  of  Christianity  with  the  worship  of  the 
Virgin.  The  Greeks  gave  a  profound  spiritual  meaning  to  the 
Eleusinian,  as  also  to  the  mystic  connection  of  Demeter  with 
Dionysius.  She  gave  them  bread,  but  they  never  forgot  that  she 
gave  them  also  the  bread  of  life.  "  She  gave  us,"  says  the  ancient 
Isocrates,  "  two  gifts  that  are  the  most  excellent :  fruits,  that  wre 
might  not  live  like  beasts,  and  that  initiation,  those  who  have 
part  in  which  have  sweeter  hope,  both  as  regards  the  close  of  life 
and  for  all  eternity."  So  Dionysius  gave  them  wine,  not  only  to 
lighten  the  cares  of  life,  but  as  a  token,  moreover,  of  efficient  deliv- 
erance from  the  fear  of  death,  and  of  the  higher  joy  which  he 
would  give  them  in  some  happier  world.  And  thus  it  is,  that 
from  the  earliest  times,  and  in  all  the  world,  bread  and  wine 
have  been  symbols  of  sacramental  significance.  In  the  end  we 
shall  find  that  the  whole  world  organizes  about  its  centre  of  faith. 
Thus,  under  three  different  religious  systems — Jerusalem,  Delphi 
arid  Mecca  were  held  to  be,  each  in  its  turn,  tjie  omphalos  or 
navel  of  the  world.  It  follows  inevitably  that  the  main  move- 
ment of  the  world  must  always  be  joyous  and  hopeful.  By  rea- 
son of  this  joy  it  is  that  every  religious  system  has  its  feast ;  and 
the  sixth  day — the  day  of  lacchus — is  the  great  day  of  the  festival. 
The  inscription  which  rises  above  every  other  is,  "  To  the  Savior 
Gods." 


264  AMERICAN  ODD  FELLOWSHIP. 

THEIR  INFLUENCE  ON  THE  MODERNS. 

Having  thus  passed  the  mysteries  in  brief  review,  let  us  exam- 
ine their  final  influence.  Originally  they  contained  everything  • 
science,  art,  government  and  religion.  Knowledge  was  power,  and 
it  extended  over  all  things.  But  in  Greece  a  separation  was  soon 
effected.  She  gave  us  the  science  of  government,  and  emancipated 
art  from  mystery.  Government  took  the  forms  of  monarchy, 
aristocracy  and  democracy,  and  art  had  for  its  priests  the  sculp- 
tor and  the  painter.  Of  science,  out  of  the  regions  of  pure  math- 
ematics, but  little  was  known.  It  followed  that  the  mysteries  be- 
came exclusively  religious.  True,  indeed,  the  Roman  Pontiff 
did,  for  a  time,  unite  all  under  his  priestly  sceptre.  Kings  were 
his  subjects  and  nations  his  slaves.  He  became  the  Grand  Lama 
of  the  Christian  world.  This  ignorant  vicegerent  of  omniscience 
forced  Galileo  to  deny  the  revolution  of  the  earth,  and  even  Friar 
Bacon,  in  his  laboratory,  was  branded  a  magician.  But  the  Refor- 
mation divorced  Church  and  State,  and  the  thunders  of  the  Vat- 
ican became  harmless  to  science  and  government.  Religion  is 
again  the  mystery. 

ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IS    ORIGINAL. 

Thus  it  will  appear  that  Odd  Fellowship  did  not  originate 
from  the  sources  we  have  investigated.  We  are  not  in  any  sense 
a  religious  body.  Neither  are  we  the  teachers  of  philosophy  or 
science.  It  follows  that  we  must  seek  some  other  and  far 
different  origin.  Our  Order  is  founded  upon  a  rock  of  truth.  It 
began  within  the  memory  of  man,  and  we  know  its  origin.  Pass- 
ing by  its  initiatory  rites,  it  owes  nothing  to  the /past.  There  are 
certain  elements  in  man  that  are  generic ;  there  are  conditions 
in  his  lot  that  are  common  to  all,  and  Odd  Fellowship  is  merely 
a  development  of  certain  of  these  conditions.  Poverty  was  the 
motor  force  of  its  beginning — mutual  relief  the  object — social  en- 
joyment its  first  result.  From  this  root  it  spread  out  and  grew 
up  as  the  greatest  of  beneficial  societies.  It  is  to-day  THE  BENE- 
FICIAL SOCIETY.  In  England  it  is  nothing  more ;  but  here  it  is 
not  merely  a  beneficial  society.  A  class  of  men  have  ruled  it  who 
have  wedded  benefits  to  charity  and  dues  to  beneficence.  Hence 
we  are  many-sided.  As  a  beneficial  institution  we  insist  on  the 
receipt  of  dues  and  the  payment  of  benefits ;  but  as  a  moral  and 


THE    SECRET   PRINCIPLE.  265 

spiritual  force  we  deal  with  the  higher  motives  and  minister  to 
the  finer  nature.  The  whole  edifice  glows  with  the  light  of  a 
splendid  humanitarianism.  Its  dome,  like  the  visible  heavens,  is 
on  fire  with  the  guiding  stars  of  a  moral  universe.  Thus  all  the 
aspects  of  men  are  met  and  gratified. 

In  our  secret  work  the  same  duality  appears.  Each  degree 
is  a  workman's  lesson,  or  the  work  itself.  Poverty  is  again  the 
motor.  In  the  higher  wants,  such  as  Friendship,  Love  and 
Truth,  we  still  inculcate  the  remedy  of  mutual  relief.  It  is  still 
the  workshop,  but  its  walls  are  the  visible  horizon ;  still  the 
workman,  but  his  task  the  regeneration  of  the  world.  Our 
mysteries  then  are  as  old  as  man ;  but  their  forms,  like  modern 
science,  borrow  little  or  nothing  from  the  past.  They  were  a 
discovery  like  that  in  California;  the  gold  was  already  there, 
but  the  man  and  the  hour  had  never  before  met  to  open  up  its 
treasures  to  the  world. 

The  Masons  are  not  legitimate  descendants  from  this  stock, 
although  they  bear  many  marks  of  a  similar  paternity ;  for  that 
body  is  certainly  original  in  its  legends,  its  moral  and  its  secret 
work.  It  is  a  system  too  practical  in  its  theory  and  universal  in 
its  teachings  to  have  sprung  from  an  original  which  had  no  land- 
marks, but  took  new  forms  in  every  country  where  it  found  a 
domicil.  But  operations  of  the  human  mind,  in  their  limited 
sphere  of  action,  cannot  in  the  very  nature  of  things  be  entirely 
original ;  in  the  sense  of  entire  originality  no  system  can  for  a 
moment  maintain  the  claim,  however  much  it  may  be  asserted. 
But  Masonry  is  an  original  in  the  qualified  use  of  that  term,  and 
a  mighty  original,  hoary  with  antiquity  and  rich  with  the  spoils 
of  a  thousand  conquests.  Yet  the  similarity  in  some  features  of 
Masonic  aims  to  those  of  these  ancients,  establishes  the  fact  that 
one  portion,  at  least,  of  that  mystic  system  is  sacredly  protected 
by  the  Masonic  body  We  refer  to  art,  science,  especially  that 
of  numbers,  and  that  intellectual  ornamentation  which  is  the 
noblest  object  of  Masonic  aspirations.  These  are  crystallized  into 
other  and  more  subtle  forms,  and  those  who  teach  and  those  who 
learn  at  that  point  within  a  circle,  may  \vell  be  considered  as 
conserving  these  noble  traits  of  the  Ancient  Mysteries.  When, 
therefore,  we  speak  of  Masonry  as  a  form  of  Ancient  Mystery,  it 
is  always  in  the  accommodated  sense  in  which  it  is  here  explained. 

A  work  published  in  London,  in  1875,  entitled  "  The  Secret 


266  AMERICAN   ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

Societies  of  all  Ages  and  Countries,"  by  Charles  William  Hecke- 
thorn,  in  two  volumes,  is  remarkable  for  this,  that  the  Order 
of  Odd  Fellows  has  no  chapter  in  the  volume,  nor  even  so  much 
as  a  single  word  of  mention.  This  may  be  explained  by 
the  author's  theory,  when  he  says,  introduction,  sec.  2,  "  We  may 
therefore  more  conveniently  range  secret  societies  in  the  two 
comprehensive  divisions  of  religious  and  political."  As  our  Order 
is  neither  political  nor  religious,  but  simply  beneficial  and  moral, 
he  naturally  supposed  that  we  were  not  teachers  of  esoteric 
doctrine.  In  the  study  of  the  rule  he  did  not  find  the  exception, 
and  his  neglect  is  strong  proof  that  we  are  original,  not  capable 
of  being  classified  under  any  of  the  generic  forms  of  secret 
societies.  For  such  is  our  claim,  which  we  are  ready  and  able  at 
any  time  to  maintain  against  all  comers  and  every  odds. 

THE    ANCIENT    MYSTERIES    IN    MODERN    FORMS. 

In  many  striking  traits  the  Roman  Catholic  Church  of  to-day 
contains  the  fundamental  features  of  the  ancient  mysteries.  Its 
faith  in  traditions  and  its  descent  from  ancient  Rome,  the  pupil 
of  Greece,  account  for  this.  The  whole  ritual  of  its  worship 
revives  the  pageantry  of  pagan  antiquity.  A  late  drawing  of 
Brahma,  made  by  William  Simpson,  a  learned  Hindoo  pundit,  is 
curiously  suggestive  in  this  connection.  It  represents  Brahma 
supreme,  who  in  the  act  of  creation  made  himself  double,  namely, 
male  and  female.  The  original  figure,  as  copied,  is  far  too  gross, 
for  the  public  eye.  Thus  the  male  priest  puts  on  female  or 
flowing  garments,  to  represent  the  double  sex  or  the  creative 
power  in  unity.  The  Catholic  surplice  is  the  figment  of  a 
woman's  dress ;  it  can  be  traced  back  to  the  Egyptians,  Assyrians, 
Phoenicians,  and  others  who  worshipped  Isis,  Astarte,  Venus,  Is- 
wari  and  others  in  that  garb.  The  female  garb  was  a  compliment 
considered  most  pleasing  to  the  goddesses.  But  the  most  singular 
similarity  of  all  exists  among  the  Japanese.  It  is  said  that 
Zavier,  on  witnessing  their  practices,  was  filled  with  astonishment 
and  terror.  "  Diabolo  ecclesiam  Christi  imitante"  exclaimed 
the  saint.  "  The  devil  imitates  the  Church  of  Christ."  The 
Papal  religion  is  essentially  feminine  and  built  on  the  ancient 
Chaldean  basis.  It  clings  to  the  female  element  in  the  worship 
of  the  Virgin  Mary.  In  modern  theosophy,  the  Indian  mirror, 
Maja,  from  which  we  have  the  word  "  magic,"  is  called  the 


THE    SECRET    PRINCIPLE.  267 

Eternal  Mirror  of  Wonders,  the  Virgin  Sophia,  ever  bringing 
forth,  yet  ever  a  virgin,  the  analogue  of  the  Virgin  Mary.  But 
our  limits  preclude  more  on  this  interesting  and  fruitful  topic. 

To  betray  the  mysteries  was  everywhere  considered  infamous, 
and  the  heaviest  penalties  were  attached  to  it ;  hence,  in  all  in- 
itiations, the  candidate  had  to  take  the  most  terrible  oaths  that 
he  would  keep  the  secrets  entrusted  to  him.  We  all  remember 
that  Alcibiades  was  banished  and  accursed  for  having  revealed 
the  mysteries  of  Ceres. 

THE    DOCTRINES    AND    RITES    OF    PYTHAGORAS. 

But  we  turn  to  other  manifestations  of  the  secret  principle,  of 
less  antiquity  indeed,  but  potent  in  their  influence  upon  mankind. 
Of  these,  the  teachings  of  Pythagoras  were  certainly  great.  He 
was  born  in  Samos,  about  580  years  before  Christ,  and  died 
probably  about  504  B.  C.  He  is  said  to  have  traveled  thirty 
years  collecting  knowledge,  especially  the  secret  doctrines  of  the 
priests  concerning  the  worship  of  the  gods.  Egypt,  Arabia, 
Phoenicia,  Judea,  Babylon,  and  even  Gaul  and  India,  are  men- 
tioned as  among  the  countries  in  which  he  traveled.  He  is  said 
to  have  returned  to  Samos,  with  religious  zeal  the  predominant 
element  in  his  character.  He  afterwards  settled  at  Crotona, 
where  he  was  honored  as  a  person  favored  by  the  gods,  and  as  a 
revealer  of  divine  secrets.  His  doctrine  was  mainly  founded  on 
the  mysticism  of  numbers,  and  was  long  afterwards  recognized 
in  alchemy  and  in  the  symbols  of  mystical  architecture.  Those 
adopted  by  him  were  principally  derived  from  geometry.  The 
Tight  angle  was  an  emblem  of  morality  and  justice.  The  equi- 
lateral triangle  was  a  symbol  of  God,  the  essence  of  light  and 
truth.  The  square,  like  the  tetractys,  referred  to  the  Divine  mind. 
The  cube  was  the  symbol  of  the  mind  of  man  after  it  had  been 
purified  by  piety  and  acts  of  devotion,  and  thus  prepared  for 
mingling  with  the  celestial  gods.  The  point  within  a  circle,  and 
the  dodecahedron,  or  figure  of  twelve  sides,  were  -symbols  of  the 
universe.  The  triple  triangle  was  an  emblem  of  health,  and  the 
letter  Y  a  representation  of  the  course  of  human  life,  in  which 
there  are  two  diverging  paths :  the  one  of  virtue,  leading  to  hap- 
piness, and  the  other  of  vice,  conducting  to  misery.  He  believed 
in  the  universal  influence  of  numbers,  which  he  supposed  to  be 
the  controlling  principle  of  all  things.  Numbers  were  of  two 


268  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

kinds,  intellectual  and  scientific.  Intellectual  number  existed 
before  creation,  and  became,  in  the  plans  of  Deity,  the  producing 
cause  of  all  things.  Scientific  number  is  the  generative  cause  of 
multiplicity,  which  proceeds  from  and  is  the  result  of  unity. 
Scientific  numbers  are  equal  or  odd.  Equal  numbers  are  said  to 
be  female,  and  odd  ones  male ;  because  even  numbers  admit  of 
division  or  generation,  which  odd  ones  do  not.  Odd  numbers, 
however,  are  the  most  perfect.  ONE, — the  Monad, — represented 
the  central  fire  or  God,  and  was  the  symbol  of  existence  and  univer- 
sal preservation  and  harmony.  Two  was  unlucky,  and  denoted 
darkness  and  the  evil  principle.  Hence  the  Romans  dedicated 
the  second  month  of  the  year  to  Pluto,  the  god  of  hell,  and  the 
second  day  of  that  month  to  the  manes  of  the  dead.  Four  was 
the  divine  number,  and  referred  to  Deity  ;  so  that  many  nations 
gave  to  Him  a  name  of  four  letters,  as  the  Hebrews,  A  L  O  A. 
So  we  have  A  D  A  D  among  the  Assyrians,  A  M  M  M 
among  the  Egyptians,  S  Y  R  E  among  the  Persians,  D  E  U  S 
among  the  Latins,  and  T-H  EOS  among  the  Greeks,  T-H 
being  a  single  or  compound  letter  in  that  language.  Five  rep- 
resented light,  and  a  triple  triangle,  forming  the  outline  of  a  five 
pointed  star,  was  an  emblem  of  health.  Among  the  Cabalists 
the  game  figure,  with  the  name  of  God  written  on  each  of  its 
points  and  in  the  centre,  was  considered  talismanic.  Among 
Free  Masons,  five  is  symbolical  of  the  five  orders  of  architecture, 
the  five  human  senses,  and  the  five  points  of  fellowship. 

But  of  all  the  numbers  after  unity,  seven  was  the  greatest. 
Pythagoras  called  it  "  venerable,"  because  it  referred  to  the  crea- 
tion, and  was  made  up  of  two  perfect  figures,  the  triangle  and 
the  square.  The  Hebrew  bible  is  full  of  illustrations  of  the  sacred 
character  assigned  to  this  number.  In  six  days  the  earth's  cre- 
ation wras  perfected,  the  seventh  wras  consecrated  to  rest.  If  Cain 
be  avenged  sevenfold,  Lamech  seventy  and  sevenfold.  Abra- 
ham pleaded  seven  times  seven  for  Sodom ;  he  gave  seven  ewe 
lambs  to  Abimelech  for  a  wrell  of  water.  Jacob  served  seven 
years  for  Rachel,  and  also  another  seven  years.  Joseph  mourned 
seven  days  for  Jacob.  Laban  pursued  after  Jacob  seven  days' 
journey.  The  seven  years  of  plenty  and  the  seven  years  of  fam- 
ine were  foretold  in  Pharaoh's  dream,  by  the  seven  fat  and  lean 
beasts  and  the  seven  cars  of  blasted  corn.  The  children  of  Israel 
were  to  eat  unleavened  bread  seven  days.  The  young  of  animals 


THE    SECRET    PRINCIPLE.  269 

were  to  remain  with  the  dam  seven  days,  and  at  the  close  of  the 
seventh  to  be  taken  away.  By  the  old  law  man  was  commanded  to 
forgive  his  offending  brother  seven  times,  but  the  meekness  of  the 
Savior  extended  his  forbearance  to  seventy  times  seven.  On  the 
seventh  month  a  holy  observance  was  commanded  to  the  children 
of  Israel,  who  fasted  seven  days  and  remained  seven  days  in 
tents.  Every  seventh  year  was  directed  to  be  a  year  of  rest  for 
all  things,  and  at  the  end  of  seven  times  seven  years  commenced 
the  jubilee;  they  were  to  observe  a  feast  seven  days  after  they  had 
gathered  in  their  corn  and  wine ;  seven  days  they  were  to  keep  a 
solemn  feast,  as  they  had  been  blessed  in  the  work  of  their  hands. 
Every  seventh  year  the  land  lay  fallow.  Every  seventh  year  there 
was  a  general  release  from  all  debts,  and  bondsmen  were  set  free. 
Every  seventh  year  the  law  was  directed  to  be  read  to  the  people. 
If  they  were  obedient,  their  enemies  should  flee  before  them  seven 
ways;  if  disobedient,  their  enemies  should  chase  them  seven 
ways.  Hannah,  the  mother  of  Samuel,  in  her  thanks,  says  that 
the  barren  hath  brought  forth  seven,  and  some  Jewish  writers  say 
that  his  name  answers  to  the  value  of  the  letters  in  the  Hebrew 
word  which  signifies  seven.  Seven  of  Saul's  sons  were  hanged  to 
stay  a  famine.  Jesse  had  seven  sons,  the  youngest  of  whom 
ascended  the  throne  of  Israel.  The  number  of  animals  in  sundry 
of  their  oblations  was  limited  to  seven.  Seven  days  were  ap- 
pointed for  an  atonement  on  the  altar,  and  the  priest's  son  was 
appointed  to  wear  his  father's  garment  seven  days.  A  reference 
to  a  concordance  will  swell  the  number  of  these  instances. 

Among  the  heathens  this  number  was  equally  sacred.  There 
were  seven  ancient  planets,  seven  Pleiades,  and  seven  Hyades ; 
seven  altars  burnt  continually  before  the  god  Mithras;  the 
Arabians  had  seven  holy  temples;  the  Hindoos  supposed  the 
world  to  be  enclosed  within  the  compass  of  seven  peninsulas ;  the 
Goths  had  seven  deities,  viz  :  the  Sun,  the  Moon,  Tuisco,  Woden, 
Thor,  Friga  and  Seatur,  from  whose  names  are  derived  our  days 
of  the  week ;  in  the  Persian  mysteries  were  seven  spacious 
caverns,  through  which  the  aspirant  had  to  pass ;  in  the  Gothic 
mysteries,  the  candidate  met  with  seven  obstructions,  which  were 
called  "the  road  of  the  seven  stages";  and  finally,  sacrifices  were 
always  considered  as  most  efficacious  when  the  victims  were  seven 
in  number. 


270  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  school  of  Pythagoras  was  not  unlike  the  social  systems 
of  the  last  century,  for  the  member  was  required  to  deposit  his 
property  in  the  common  fund  of  the  society.  The  degrees  were 
three ;  the  Acousmatici,  the  Mathematici  and  the  Pythagoreans,  in 
the  last  of  which  the  initiate  was  clothed  in  white,  and  fully 
instructed  in  the  secret  doctrine.  Silence  and  secrecy  were  the 
fundamental  lessons  taught  to  the  disciples,  and,  after  these,  devo- 
tion and  brotherly  love.  We  have  all  read  the  wonderfully  pa- 
thetic and  noble  story  of  Damon  and  Pythias,  who  were  disciples 
of  this  splendid  school.  They  adopted  a  system  of  signs  of  recogni- 
tion of  the  most  perfect  character,  by  which,  at  first  sight,  they 
became  at  once  intimate  and  familiar.  To  serve  brothers  in  dis- 
tress no  sacrifice  was  too  great ;  they  crossed  seas  and  traveled  to 
the  most  distant  lands  to  succor  them. 

Masonry  has  been  charged  writh  borrowing  much  of  its  theory 
from  the  Pythagorean,  and  certainly  their  similarity  in  the  mat- 
ter of  numbers  is  remarkable.  Yet  we  cannot  say  that  there  is 
more  than  a  similarity,  as  the  legends  of  Masonry  are  far  differ- 
ent from  those  of  Pythagoras.  Three  is,  for  instance,  a  sacred 
number  in  Masonry.  Thus  we  find  it  pervading  the  whole 
ritual.  There  are  three  degrees  of  Ancient  Craft  Masonry — three 
principal  officers  of  a  lodge — three  supports — three  ornaments — 
three  greater  and  three  lesser  lights — three  movable  and  three 
immovable  jewels — three  principal  tents — three  rounds  of  Jacob's 
ladder — three  working  tools  of  a  Fellow  Craft — three  principal 
orders  of  architecture — three  important  human  senses — three  an- 
cient Grand  Masters — three  recreant  F.\  C.\ — and,  indeed,  so 
many  instances  of  the  consecration  of  the  number  that  it  would 
exceed  the  limits  of  this  chapter  to  record  them.  The  number 
nine,  or  three  times  three,  is  scarcely  less  sacred.  It  derives  its 
value  from  being  the  product  of  three  multiplied  by  itself.  For 
a  similar  reason  27,  which  is  3  times  9,  and  81,  which  is  9  times- 
9,  are  esteemed  as  sacred  numbers  in  the  higher  degrees. 

Thus  we  have  seen  that  the  secret  principle,  whether  envel- 
oped in  religious  or  scientific  forms,  had  a  secret  initiation :  its 
objects  were  gradually  unfolded  by  DEGREES  ;  it  had  its  signs, 
tokens  and  uniform ;  it  imposed  solemn  obligations  of  secrecy, 
and  its  devotees  were  banded  together  for  the  noblest  purposes. 
It  kept  alive  the  knowledge  of  a  divine  unity  and  of  human  re- 
sponsibility. It  gave,  in  a  limited  sphere,  a  code  of  pure  moral- 


THE    SECRET    PRINCIPLE.  21 

ity,  and  drew  men  gradually  together  as  the  offspring  of  a  com- 
mon father. 

ANCIENT    MYSTERIES    CORRUPTED:     IDOLATRY    AND    MYTHOLOGY. 

But  by  the  very  nature  of  things  these  principles  were  cor- 
rupted. If,  as  many  believe,  they  were  traditional  from  Noah, 
the  original  knowledge  was  soon  lost  to  all  but  a  very  few. 
Eusebius  is  clear  on  this  point.  "  That  man,"  says  he,  "  in  the 
first  and  earliest  times  never  dreamed  either  of  erecting  temples 
or  idols,  having  neither  painting  at  that  time,  nor  the  potter's 
art,  nor  sculpture,  nor  masonry,  nor  architecture,  is,  I  suppose, 
what  every  thinking  man  evidently  sees ;  but  over  and  above  all 
these,  they  had  not  so  much  as  heard  of  those  gods  and  heroes 
so  renowned  since."  But  the  multitude  were  not  satisfied,  and 
soon  began  openly  to  adore  the  sun  and  moon.  From  these  they 
bowed  down  to  the  stars,  especially  the  planets,  and  in  a  word, 
worshipped  the  whole  host  of  heaven.  This,  called  Sabism,  was 
the  most  ancient  sect  of  the  pagan  world.  But  idolatry  did  not 
long  remain  in  this  simple  state.  It  soon  extended  to  all  the 
objects  of  the  physical  and  animal  world,  with  the  elements, 
the  rivers,  the  mountains  on  the  one  hand,  and  various  living 
animals  down  to  the  meanest  insect,  and  the  souls  of  the  de- 
parted on  the  other.  Thus  far  their  ideal  divinities  were  founded 
upon  objects  that  had  a  real  existence.  But  they  did  not  stop 
here.  They  not  only  bestowed  divine  honors  upon  the  most 
dignified  of  human  functions,  but  extended  those  honors  to  the 
most  degrading  offices,  till  at  last  it  assumed  the  form  of  a  uni- 
versal system.  Ignorance  in  philosophy,  and  especially  in 
physics,  gave  rise  to  many  fables.  By  gross  and  sensible  repre- 
sentations they  gave  life  to  every  physical  thing.  In  process  of 
time  they  proceeded  to  deify  those  objects,  which  they  represented 
in  human  form.  Thus  the  rainbow,  that  token  of  reconciliation, 
became  the  beautiful  IRIS,  the  messenger  of  the  gods  and  of 
Juno,  because  the  rainbow  declares  the  disposition  of  the  air, 
which  that  goddess  represents. 

The  religious  portion  of  the  system  was  hedged  round  with 
an  awful  sacredness.  Thus  Anaxagoras  was  punished  with 
death  for  having  taught  that  the  sun  was  not  animated,  but  was 
a  mass  of  red-hot  iron  about  the  size  of  the  Peloponnesus. 
Many  curious  parallels  have  been  drawn  to  show  that  their  wor- 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

ship  was  derived  from  a  corruption  of  the  Hebrew  scriptures ;  but 
although  the  analogies  are  striking,  they  are  not  conclusive. 
Some  of  their  errors  arose  from  a  defective  chronology  and  their 
ignorance  of  history.  Certainly  their  ideas  of  the  deluge  are 
clear  and  unmistakable.  But  nothing  misled  them  more  than 
their  ignorance  of  geography  and  the  marvellous  stories  told 
them  by  travelers.  The  ocean  was  a  place  overspread  with 
darkness.  The  rocks  that  form  the  straits  of  Scylla  and 
Charybdis  were  two  monsters  that  swallowed  up  their  ships. 
The  Cimmerians  were  supposed  to  be  a  people  buried  in  eternal 
darkness;  the  Arimaspians  and  Issedonians  as  men  that  had 
but  one  eye.  Here  was  a  people  covered  with  feathers ;  there 
man  monsters  without  heads,  as  the  Acephali ;  or  having  dog's 
heads,  as  the  Cynocephali ;  some  whose  ears  reached  down  to 
their  heels,  and  yet  others  that  had  but  one  foot.  As  the  action 
proceeded,  new  ideas  were  added.  Hence  the  hero  became  the 
demi-god,  and  new  prodigies  added  new  subjects  for  apotheosis. 
Poets  arose  to  embody  these  marvels  into  verse  and  to  add  im- 
measurably to  their  number.  Painters  and  statuaries  also  put 
poetic  creatures  into  such  perfect  form  that  they  at  once  became 
part  of  the  system.  At  length  the  gods  condescended  to  sit  for 
their  portraits,  and  were  presented  in  bodily  presence  to  the 
world.  Soon  the  superior  gods  introduced  a  host  of  tutelar 
deities,  who  sat  at  every  hearthstone  and  became  attached  to 
every  household.  They  now  became  universal ;  every  crime  as 
well  as  every  virtue  had  divinities  assigned  it.  The  adulteress 
owned  Jupiter ;  the  ladies  of  gallantry,  Venus ;  jealous  wives, 
Juno ;  and  the  pickpockets,  Mercury  and  the  goddess  Laverna. 
They  overruled  every  act  of  the  life.  Over  marriage  presided 
Juno,  Hymen aeus  and  others;  Momus  was  the  god  of  raillery; 
for  jollity  they  had  Yetula,  and  for  pleasures  Yolupta.  The 
great  talkers  invoked  Aius  Locutius,  while  Harpocrates  and 
Sigalion  were  the  gods  of  silence.  Pravor,  Timor  and  Pallor 
were  those  whose  invention  was  owing  to  terror,  fear,  and  pale- 
ness which  accompanies  them.  The  poets  invoked  Apollo, 
Minerva  and  the  Muses ;  the  orators  Suada  and  Pitho ;  the  physi- 
cians Esculapius,  Meditrina,  Consus,  Hygeia  and  Telesphorus ; 
the  servants  and  maids  Ancula  and  Ancutae ;  shepherds  the  god 
Pan,  cowherds  the  goddess  Bubona,  horsemen  Castor  and  Hip- 
pona.  They  had  a  god  of  ordure  named  Stercutius,  and  one 


THE   SECRET   PRINCIPLE.  273 

for  other  conveniences,  Crepitus ;  while  for  the  common  sewers 
they  had  Cloacini.  But  we  must  stop  in  an  enumeration  which 
is  wellnigh  endless.  Varro  reports  them  as  thirty  thousand,  but 
we  have  no  difficulty  in  believing  the  statement  of  Pliny  that 
"  the  number  of  gods  surpassed  that  of  men." 

All  this,  and  more  of  like  import,  was  the  exoteric  or  public 
doctrine  held  by  the  mass  of  mankind.  To  deny  it  was  impious 
and  a  capital  offence.  Hence  the  contrary  was  imparted  in 
whispers,  and  by  signs  and  tokens,  and  in  secret.  Who  does 
not  remember  the  fate  of  the  illustrious  Socrates,  wrho  knew  the 
secrets  without  initiation,  and  whose  proclamation  of  the  Divine 
unity  led  to  the  grand  tragedy  of  his  execution  ?  Had  not  Salem 
also  its  Melchisedec,  the  Idumeans  their  Job,  and  the  Chaldeans 
their  Abraham  ? 

TRUTH    WILL    FINALLY    PREVAIL. 

But  the  end  was  approaching.  The  priests  turned  into  verse 
what  was  delivered  by  the  Priestess  of  Delphos  in  her  fury,  and 
their  poetry  was  often  wretchedly  bad.  The  Epicureans, 
especially,  made  it  their  open  jest,  and  said,  in  raillery,  it  wa8 
surprising  enough  that  Apollo,  the  god  of  poetry,  should  be  a 
much  worse  poet  than  Homer,  whom  he  himself  had  inspired. 
Soon  these  railleries,  and  those  of  the  Cynics  and  Peripatetics, 
obliged  the  priests  to  cease  turning  the  responses  into  verse,  which, 
according  to  Plutarch,  was  one  of  the  principal  causes  of  the 
decline  of  that  oracle. 

One  after  another  the  idols  fell,  the  temples  were  in  ruins,  the 
oracles  were  dumb,  and  the  vestal  virgins  no  longer  fed  the 
sacred  flame.  The  awful  reverence  of  brutish  ignorance  gave 
place  to  indifference  and  disgust.  With  stealthy  tread,  led  on 
swiftly  by  panic  terror,  the  countless  multitudes  of  deities  fled 
away.  Keality  uprose,  stern  and  majestic,  and  sat  upon  the 
seven  hills ;  the  heavens  went  further  off,  and  became  astronom- 
ical, and  Iris,  last  of  the  departing  train,  melted  into  heaven. 
Thence  issuing,  she  broke  forth  again  in  unclouded  splendor,  the 
zone  of  the  new  covenant,  in  the  radiant  bow  under  whose  lofty 
arches  trooping  angels  sang,  "Glory  to  God  in  the  highest;  on 
earth  peace,  good- will  to  men.1' 

The  Pantheon  was  suddenly  deserted,  and  though  yet  haunted 
by  the  old  traditions,  became  the  monumental  temple  of  a  grander 
18 


274  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

mystery.  Many  uncouth  relics  and  tatters  of  the  old  mythology 
remain,  but  we  are  gradually  dropping  the  gross  forms  of  an- 
tiquity. The  Jew,  despite  the  Talmud  and  the  Cabala,  never 
lost  his  knowledge  of  Jehovah ;  the  Moslem  utters  the  mighty 
cry,  "  There  is  but  one  God  !"  and  Christianity  will  yet  teach  the 
lesson  of  spiritual  devotion  to  the  world.  Gross  superstition 
enshrouds  numerous  nations,  and  there  are  many  modern  Cim- 
merians. But  truth,  like  the  sun,  will  shine  upon  all  lands  and 
illuminate  mankind.  YET  TRUTH  WILL  NEVER  ENTIRELY  EMERGE 

FROM  MYSTERY.       THE  UNKNOWN  WILL  NEVER  BE  FULLY  DISCLOSED. 

KNOWLEDGE  WILL  CONTINUE  TO  USE  THE  SIGNS  AND  SYMBOLS  OF  A 

DIVINE  ARCANUM,  BUT  THAT    ARCANUM    WILL  BE  THE  TRUE  WISDOM. 


&tf 


CHAPTER   XII. 

THOMAS    WILDEY. 

Within  the  oyster's  shell  uncouth 

The  purest  pearl  may  hide : — 
Trust  me,  you'll  find  a  heart  of  truth 

Within  that  rough  outside. 

—MRS.  OSGOOD. 

Of  all  tasks,  that  is  the  most  difficult  which  proposes  the  re- 
production of  an  individual  who  has  left  the  world.  Supposing 
such  a  feat  possible,  it  is  after  all  not  the  man  himself,  but 
only  the  image  he  made  in  the  mind  of  the  producer.  Art  may 
copy  his  features  and  his  form ;  eye-witnesses  may  testify  to  his 
wrords  and  actions ;  even  the  interior  may  be  indicated  by  the 
sentiments  and  motives  which  he  professed,  or  the  manifest  ten- 
dency of  his  actions ;  his  "  works  that  follow  him  "  would  seem 
to  be  the  surest  test,  but  these  may  be  fallacious,  unless  one 
could  know  why  he  did  them.  Pride,  vanity,  prejudice,  envy, 
bigotry,  or  the  half  insanity  of  eccentricity,  may  have  been  the 
producing  causes.  Man  is  an  enigma  when  seated  at  our  fire- 
sides and  eating  at  our  tables :  how  much  more  so  when  he  is 
absent  and  only  presents  himself  at  second  hand  !  Besides,  there 
are  but  few  artists  who,  like  Boswell,  devote  a  life  to  the  subject 
and  thus  produce  a  masterpiece.  It  follows  that  of  all  produc- 
tions, biographies  are  the  worst.  They  are  mostly  written  by 
friends  who  are  naturally  partial ;  and  a  blind  preference  is  some- 
times more  injurious  than  an  open  enmity.  Eulogy  is  often  so 
recklessly  applied  as  to  form  a  mask  which  any  person  might 
wear,  and  is  nowise  indicative  of  the  individual  beneath  it. 
Such  things  have  been,  and  will  be  ad  nauseam.  But  readers 
now  require  some  attempt  at  literary  photography,  and  critical 
exposition  is  the  demand  of  the  age.  It  insists  upon  knowing 
who  and  what  was  the  man ;  his  gifts,  whether  natural  or  ac- 
quired ;  his  dispositions,  habits,  forms  of  thought  and  motives, 
and  all  those  things  that  go  to  exhibit  the  living  person.  The 
time  is  passing  when  one  can  dress  up  a  human  being  as  an 

(275) 


276  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

allegory,  and  present  him  as  a  mere  collection  of  physical  and 
moral  attributes.  Flesh  and  blood  are  now  necessary  to  form  a 
man,  even  in  the  pages  of  biography.  It  will  not  do  to  say  he 
was  wise,  without  a  specimen  of  his  wisdom ;  that  he  w^as  good, 
without  the  visible  tokens  of  goodness ;  that  he  was  great,  unless 
his  claim  to  the  title  is  made  good  by  actions  worthy  of  the 
name.  Headers  expect  to  be  told  why  such  things  are  asserted, 
and  especially  to  be  informed  of  that  in  which  his  eminence  con- 
sisted, as  distinguished  from  his  weaknesses  or  his  vices;  for  they 
no  longer  look  for  perfect  character,  but  expect  to  see,  when  the 
veil  is  lifted,  where  the  clay  in  the  image  is  joined  to  the  superior 
material. 

In  the  central  figure  of  the  TRIO  in  our  picture  we  hope  to 
be  successful  in  presenting  a  living  man,  of  mixed  and  curious 
wwkmanship  indeed,  but  in  his  lineaments  a  man  of  character 
and  capacity,  who  required  but  the  place  and  the  motive  to 
develop  qualities  which  have  always  made  leaders  of  mankind. 

WILDEY    BEFORE    THE    19tll    APRIL,    1819. 

The  subject  of  this  memoir  was  a  personage  of  such  a  charac- 
ter as  to  require  peculiar  treatment.  Curiosity  has  been  busy 
with  him,  and  cannot  be  said  to  be  in  any  manner  even  tolerably 
gratified.  His  station  was  so  little  elevated,  and  his  private  life 
so  uneventful,  as  to  leave  him  much  in  shadow.  True,  he  was 
known  to  many  now  living ;  but  even  they  were  not  admitted  to 
the  knowledge  of  his  private  wralks,  or  to  witness  those  home 
scenes  which  more  than  any  other  indicate  the  man.  He  was  at 
all  times  reticent,  or  entirely  silent,  about  himself,  and  his  solitary 
life  gave  no  glimpse  into  the  obscurity  of  his  domestic  secrets. 
He  was  manifestly  of  humble  extraction,  and  might  be  ranked 
one  remove  above  a  common  laborer.  He  signed  himself  "  Coach- 
Spring  Maker,"  but  his  fellow-craftsmen  knew  him  better  by  the 
name  of  "  Blacksmith."  His  early  years  were  passed  in  England, 
and  at  his  maturity  we  find  him  in  Baltimore.  His  appearance 
was  striking  as  a  specimen  of  a  true  John  Bull,  with  the  bluff- 
ness,  sincerity,  and  pluck  of  that  nation.  "With  a  mellow  voice 
and  a  hearty  grip,  he  never  failed  to  win  all  comers  in  a  jovial 
company.  The  man  was  restless  and  full  of  vitality,  and  nothing 
could  repress  the  animal  vivacity  which  was  always  breaking  out 
in  frolic  and  humor.  At  times,  indeed,  he  was  serious,  and  that 


THOMAS   WILDEY.  277 

was  always  when  he  saw  human  suffering,  and  he  ran  eagerly  to 
relieve  it.  It  is  said,  when  the  yellow  fever  raged  in  Baltimore, 
Thomas  Wildey  was  constant  in  his  efforts  to  assist  the  sufferers. 
He  gave  medicines  and  money,  and  nursed  and  watched  the 
victims  when  many  fled  from  the  contagion. 

His  friendship  was  rarely  given,  but  when  granted,  became  a 
sacred  thing  to  which  he  bowed  with  lowly  reverence.  Of  educa- 
tion he  had  little  or  none,  save  what  came  to  him  by  social  inter- 
course ;  his  knowledge  of  books  was  scanty,  but  no  one  in  his 
station  had  better  discernment  of  men.  His  judgment  was  quick 
and  excellent,  and  his  ready  mind  grasped  a  good  suggestion 
and  never  failed  to  make  it  his  own.  In  his  sphere  he  was 
always  the  arbiter,  holding  sway  over  his  equals  by  his  will  and 
humor,  and  even  among  his  superiors  passing  for  a  man  of  vigor 
and  capacity.  Such  was  Thomas  Wildey  when  he  had  just 
attained  his  37th  year,  in  the  early  part  of  1819. 

Thomas  Wildey  was  born  in  the  city  of  London,  on  the  15th 
day  of  January,  1782,  in  the  reign  of  George  III,  at  the  close  of 
our  Revolutionary  War.  At  five  years  he  went  to  a  parish  school, 
and  left  it  at  the  age  of  fourteen,  to  learn  a  trade.  Judging  from 
his  attainments,  the  school  must  have  been  inferior  or  the  scholar 
dull  and  negligent.  His  indentures  called  for  the  trade  of  a 
"  coach-spring  maker,"  at  which  he  served  his  time,  and  came 
forth  a  skilled  workman.  He  pursued  it  as  a  journeyman  for  a 
number  of  years,  in  many  of  the  towns  of  England.  In  the  year 
1817  he  married,  and  soon  after  embarked  at  Liverpool  for  the 
United  States,  and  arrived  at  Baltimore  early  in  the  month  of 
September.  But  before  leaving  home  he  had  been  prominent 
among  mechanics,  not  only  as  a  workman,  but  in  their  class  en- 
joyments. Among  these,  perhaps,  none  ranked  higher  than  those 
which  were  pursued  by  the  so-called  Odd  Fellows.  On  his  com- 
ing of  age  he  became  an  initiate  of  Lodge  No.  17  of  that  Order, 
in  the  city  of  London,  and  served  in  every  capacity,  from  the 
humblest  to  the  highest  office ;  at  an  early  day  he  was  presented 
by  his  brethren  with  a  silver  medal,  as  a  token  of  regard  for  valu- 
able services.  After  three  years  devoted  to  No.  17,  his  zeal  led 
him  to  enlarge  the  sphere  of  the  Order.  He  found  a  distant  su- 
burban locality,  and  in  a  short  period  caused  the  institution  of 
Morning  Star  Lodge,  No.  38.  He  was  unanimously  chosen  its 
first  presiding  officer,  and  during  his  membership  of  ten  years, 


278  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

was  called  upon  twice  afterwards  to  fill  the  same  chair.  It  will 
thus  be  seen  that  the  first  thirteen  of  the  years  of  his  majority 
were  spent  in  the  active  work  of  Odd  Fellowship. 

The  Manchester  Unity  was  not  formed  until  1809,  and  Wil- 
dey  became  an  Odd  Fellow  in  1804;  so  he  must  then  have  been 
connected  with  some  one  of  the  independent  organizations  which 
afterwards  formed  the  Unity.  The  particulars  of  his  labors  in 
England  have  never  been  given,  beyond  what  we  have  detailed. 

On  the  30th  day  of  July,  1817,  he  bade  adieu  to  his  native 
land  and  embarked  for  America ;  he  reached  the  city  of  Balti- 
more on  the  2d  of  September  following,  and  sought  and  obtained 
employment.  Business  was  stagnant  and  money  scarce ;  the  war 
just  over,  had  crippled  all  kinds  of  trade,  but  he  was  master  of 
his  craft,  and  found  work  when  many  others  were  neglected'. 
Subsequently  he  is  found  on  Harrison  Street,  Baltimore,  with  a 
partner,  as  coach-spring  makers ;  afterwards  he  was  on  one  of  the 
wharves,  a  coal  dealer;  off  and  on  he  kept  an  eating-house,  to 
which  his  love  of  company  disposed  him  ;  and  latterly  he  was  a 
market  gardener,  and  last  of  all  a  farmer  with  a  capital.  In  1818 
he  made  the  acquaintance  of  John  Welch,  a  house  and  ship  pain- 
ter, an  Englishman,  who  had  preceded  him  to  this  country. 
These  two  wrere  naturally  much  together  as  fellow-countrymen, 
and  never  tired  in  recurring  to  men  and  scenes  in  the  old  world. 
A  year  had  cemented  this  intimacy,  when  a  new  feature  was 
added  to  it.  They  discovered  that  each  of  them  had  been  an 
Odd  Fellow,  and  the  mutual  surprise  was  quite  agreeable. 

WILDEY    INSTITUTES    WASHINGTON    LODGE. 

The  story  is  told  by  Wildey  in  a  fragment  of  three  written 
pages,  which  is  too  rude  in  structure  for  general  perusal.  We  did 
intend  to  insert  it  exactly  as  he  set  it  down,  but  on  reflection  have 
concluded  to  improve  it  by  the  necessary  revision.  Speaking  of 
himself,  he  says  :  "  In  the  year  1818  he  made  many  acquaint- 
ances ;  among  these  he  was  familiar  with  a  Mr.  John  Welch, 
with  whom  he  was  afterwards  intimate  until  his  death.  Wildey 
often  spoke  to  his  new  friend  on  the  subject  of  beneficial  societies, 
and  was  surprised  to  learn  from  him  that  no  such  association  ex- 
isted in  Baltimore.  In  reply,  Wildey  suggested  that  he  knew  of 
a  society  which  would  suit  this  country,  and  mentioned  the  name 
of  the  Odd  Fellows.  Welch  carelessly  remarked  that  he  had 


THOMAS    WILDEY.  279 

"been  a  member  of  that  Order,  but  had  never  met  with  one,  or 
heard  of  such  a  society  since  his  emigration.  By  mutual  admis- 
sions, it  was  found  that  Welch  had  been  a  P.  Y.  G.  in  Birming- 
ham, England,  and  Wildey  had  been  initiated  in  that  country  in 
the  year  1804.  "Wildey  often  thought  on  the  subject,  and  finally 
concluded  to  publish  a  notice  for  a  meeting  of  such  Odd  Fellows 
as  might  be  residing  in  the  city.  For  this  purpose  he  sought 
Welch  and  induced  him  to  join  in  the  call." 

He  then  details  the  subsequent  proceedings  and  the  incidents 
of  the  first  informal  meeting.  He  says  :  "  Pursuant  to  notice, 
the  preliminary  meeting  took  place  on  the  13th  of  April,  1819. 
Four  gentlemen  were  present,  with  Thomas  Wildey,  making  five 
in  all.  He  examined  them,  and  was  satisfied  that  they  had  been 
regularly  initiated  into  the  Order.  Wildey  then  informed  them 
of  his  intention  to  establish  the  society  of  Odd  Fellowship,  and 
craved  their  assistance  for  that  purpose.  He  also  stated  that  no 
such  society  was  known  in  the  city,  and  of  course  there  was  no 
organized  arrangement  to  relieve  the  distressed,  or  to  care  for  the 
widow  and  orphan.  And  further,  that  the  citizens  to  whom  he 
had  presented  the  subject  did  not  wish  any  such  society.  That 
the  name  of  the  lodge  should  be  Washington.  This  was  consented 
to,  and  it  was  agreed  that  the  lodge  should  be  opened  on  Monday, 
the  26th  of  April,  1819.  The  26th  of  April  arrived,  and  at  7 
o'clock  P.  M.,  Thomas  Wildey  proceeded  to  open  the  lodge. 
He,  first  of  all,  took  his  obligation  in  the  presence  of  the  other 
four,  and  then  obligated  them ;  calling  the  society  the  Washing- 
ton Lodge,  No.  1,  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  in 
the  United  States,  the  Father  of  our  country,  God  bless  him ! — a 
day  which  will  long  be  held  in  grateful  remembrance  by  every 
Odd  Fellow." 

We  have  given  the  substance  of  the  paper,  including  its  gen- 
eral arrangement  and  statements,  but  the  original  indicates  an 
entire  want  of  literary  cultivation.  Yet,  as  good-natured  critics, 
we  have  found  much  to  praise  in  the  strong  common  sense  which 
pervades  the  article.  We  particularly  notice  his  use  of  the 
English  aspirate  of  the  middle  and  lower  classes.  But  we  have 
inserted  these  memoranda  for  a  special  purpose.  We  wish  to  do 
equal  justice  to  all.  Wildey  spent  ten  years  in  making  addresses 
and  writing  letters,  many  of  which  are  of  acknowledged  excel- 
lence. We  wish  to  give  honor  to  the  authors  of  these  productions ; 


280  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

to  award  their  due  share  of  merit  to  those  without  whom  the 
matchless  force  of  Wildey  would  have  been  exerted  in  vain.  For 
they  fixed  the  principles  and  gave  color  to  the  movement,  and 
sowed  the  seeds  of  the  modern  era,  with  its  lofty  purposes ;  pur- 
poses then  daringly  uttered,  but  now  the  current  annals  of 
history. 

Wildey's  anxiety  to  be  known  to  posterity  by  a  separate  and 
distinct  narrative,  was  undoubtedly  great.  Such  a  memoir  would 
have  gratified  him  above  measure.  With  his  usual  decision  he 
began  the  task,  with  the  assistance  of  a  certain  John  Starr,  who 
is  elsewhere  mentioned.  He  did  not  seek  better  help,  which  he 
might  have  had  ;  but  with  a  timidity  unusual  with  him,  sought 
to  have  it  done  without  consulting  his  ordinary  advisers.  This 
attempt  is  engrossed  in  a  bound  blank-book,  whose  back  bears  the 
printed  title,  "History,  &c.,  of  the  O.  I.  O.  F.  in  U.  States,  from 
1819 — 1834."  The  contents  are  in  a  clerkly  hand,  and  in  good 
English,  but  the  matter  is  condensed,  and  in  form  without  special 
interest ;  with  an  addendum  of  copies  of  letters,  rough  sketches  of 
his  medals,  &c.  But  he  was  not  satisfied  ;  hence  he  began  a  sort 
of  autobiography,  by  his  own  hand,  a  rude  fragment  of  which 
only  remains.  Before  writing  a  single  chapter  he  desisted. 

WILDEY  THE  FOUNDER  OF  ODD  FELLOWSHIP. 

The  enterprise  made  little  progress  for  several  years.  Like 
all  such  efforts  by  humble  and  obscure  beginners,  it  had  to 
struggle  against  disfavor,  apathy,  and  a  want  of  confidence. 
Wildey,  the  leader,  could  bring  to  its  aid  no  friends  in  high 
places,  no  collateral  influence  or  patronage.  It  was  self-depen- 
dent and  alone,  and  had  to  rely  upon  its  intrinsic  excellence.  But 
its  success  was  to  be  found  in  the  daring  energy  of  the  unlettered 
blacksmith.  When  he  met  with  associates  to  form  a  lodge  of  Odd 
Fellows,  it  was  his  opportunity.  It  appealed  to  an  irresistible 
passion  of  his  nature.  He  saw  his  favorite  pursuit  about  to  be 
reduced  to  the  regularity  of  a  duty  ;  his  select  comrades  secured 
to  him,  his  irregular  rambles  replaced  by  a  fixed  habitation  for 
his  pleasures,  his  strange  landlords  for  a  responsible  and  respon- 
sive HOST  ;  and  above  all,  the  petty  headship  of  an  accidental 
meeting,  by  the  chair  and  leadership  of  a  permanent  society. 
He  loved  excitement,  and  was  easily  warmed  into  a  glow  of 
feeling ;  no  ordinary  misfortune  could  affect  his  spirits,  which 


THOMAS    WILDEY.  281 

were  always  hopeful.  He  lived  in  constant  motion,  and  was 
never  quiet,  unless  when  sick  or  asleep ;  his  appearance  was  the 
signal  for  activity,  and  dullness  and  stupidity  never  could  exis^ 
in  his  presence.  It  was  always  bustle — bustle — and  a  kind  of 
perpetual  motion  wherever  he  went,  and  yet  it  was  in  form 
orderly.  His  sense  of  a  certain  kind  of  decorum  wras  very  keen  ; 
order  was  the  rule  of  his  life,  but  it  was  the  order  of  precedence 
rather  than  of  manners.  He  had  the  English  idea  of  class  and 
degree  engrafted  on  his  character  so  firmly  that  it  was  a  passion ; 
thus  his  devotion  to  lodge  rank  and  degree,  which  could  never 
brook  either  question  or  censure. 

He  had  another  incentive ;  an  instinct,  yet  undeveloped,  led 
him  to  enjoy  mystery.  The  Order  had  given  him  a  grip  and 
password,  and  these  affected  his  imagination  as  giving  dignity  to 
the  proceeding.  At  bottom  he  was  a  devotee  of  secrecy ;  it  had 
a  charm  that  led  him  on,  as  will  be  shown,  step  by  step,  until  it 
overcame  in  that  strong  nature  the  inferior  appetite  itself.  As 
the  society  slowly  advanced,  he  rose  with  it,  and  always  as  the 
leader.  As  it  took  on  solemn  form  and  affecting  ceremony,  no 
man  was  more  captivated  by  their  charms  than  the  bluff  chair- 
man. His  rugged  nature  was  large,  and  found  ready  room  for 
new  impressions.  His  worship  of  mystery  made  him  a  fit  priest 
to  preside  at  the  decorated  altars.  No  boy  was  more  bewildered 
and  delighted  with  fancy's  story  than  this  man,  who  was  as  natural 
as  a  boy  in  his  love  of  the  marvellous.  To  him  the  crowns  and 
mitres  of  the  officers  were  real,  and  the  gavel  and  title  of  Noble 
Grand  and  Grand  Master  gave  full  assurance  of  splendid  rank 
and  supreme  authority.  The  legends  of  the  ceremonies  were  to 
him  veritable  history,  and  thus  a  kind  of  supernatural  impor- 
tance was  attached  to  the  doctrines  and  duties  they  enjoined. 
He  came  to  believe  in  them  with  the  simplicity  of  a  child,  but 
with  the  will  of  a  giant ;  and  here  we  may  find  the  secret  of  that 
devotion  which  made  him  great.  Thus  he  was  sincere ;  he  never 
doubted  the  enterprise,  or  that  it  was  worthy  to  succeed.  Those 
who  saw  him  in  the  lodges  were  always  impressed  by  his  earnest- 
ness and  enthusiasm.  He  was  every  inch  a  presiding  officer ; 
full  of  courtesy,  but  commanding  implicit  deference.  In  the 
performance  of  his  duties  he  was  full  of  dignity ;  his  face  was 
lighted  up  with  intelligence,  and  he  was  deft  and  precise  in  every 
arrangement.  All  who  met  him  in  public  were  satisfied  that  he 


282  AMERICAN     ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

was  in  love  with  his  work,  and  had  undying  faith  in  his  mission. 
That  mission  in  his  mind  was  twofold.  First,  to  become  the 
founder  of  a  great  Order  ;  secondly,  by  that  Order  to  spread  fra- 
ternity over  all  the  world :  the  former  was  fully  born,  the  latter 
beyond  mere  assertion  was  but  nascent.  Yet  as  supplementary 
of  the  former  he  gave  it  every  endeavor,  but  we  are  assured  that 
the  result  was  astounding  even  to  him.  Yet  not  so  of  the  initial 
idea,  for  in  fancy  he  was  in  1822  a  famous  man.  His  own  im- 
portance he  never  underrated,  but  from  the  first  day  was  the 
father  and  the  founder. 

This  idea  possessed  him  to  the  exclusion  of  ordinary  motives : 
for  this  he  recrossed  the  ocean,  and  strove  for  and  obtained  a 
separation  from  the  Unity;  for  this  he  painfully  travelled  by 
slow  coaches  and  over  bad  roads,  a  visitor  to  states  and  cities, 
seeking  for  proselytes;  for  this  he  spent  laborious  days  and 
sleepless  nights  devising  plans,  and  wasting  his  small  property 
for  means  to  sustain  the  enterprise.  Subjugated  by  that  idea, 
even  his  strong  will  could  become  supple,  and  allow  him  to  use 
the  arts  of  diplomacy.  He  often  felt  himself  unequal  to  the 
intellectual  wants  of  the  rising  institution ;  and  new  demands 
came  in  the  need  of  additional  mental  aliment  in  the  system. 
Around  him  were  men  his  superiors  in  that  direction,  but  he 
did  not  hesitate  ;  his  haughty  spirit  bent  to  ask  assistance,  and 
lie  sat  at  their  feet  for  the  lessons  he  should  impart  to  others. 
And  in  this  he  was  fortunate,  for  his  fellows  were  workmen  un- 
known indeed  in  literary  circles,  but  more  than  able  for  the 
task. 

Again  the  same  idea  bowred  his  iron  will,  and  stayed  his 
despotic  energy  at  every  stage  where  change  and  strategy  were 
required  by  the  changing  times  and  events  of  the  period.  In  all 
critical  junctures  his  sure  eye  found  the  counsellor  for  his  pur- 
pose, and  once  found,  all  his  imperial  faculties  were  united  to 
drive  on  in  the  new  direction.  He  was  never  wasteful  of  his 
money,  but  when  he  saw  the  Order  in  want,  it  stirred  his  very 
bowels  and  made  him  sick  at  heart.  At  such  times  he  came 
forward  with  his  all,  and  his  credit  in  the  bargain.  If  the  Order 
lacked  a  place  of  meeting,  he  turned  out  his  household  to  give  it 
shelter.  If  it  wanted  a  messenger,  his  response  was,  "  Here  am 
I."  On  all  sides  he  spread  around  it  his  protection  and  affection 
as  the  child  of  his  very  soul.  This  was  the  more  intensified, 


THOMAS    WILDEY.  283 

localise  he  gave  himself  to  no  other  fixed  employment.  This 
was  his  business — all  else  but  temporary  expedients.  No  wonder 
his  associates  gazed  on  him  with  astonishment  and  gave  him  the 
pre-eminence.  He  had  purchased  it  with  his  money,  deserved  it 
by  his  labors,  conquered  it  by  his  zeal,  held  it  by  his  prudence,  and 
indeed  owned  it  as  such  men  are  the  natural  owners  and  chief- 
tains among  others ;  for  in  him  was  that  native  force  that  defies 
and  subdues  all  competition. 

We  have  not  detailed  the  personal  affronts  put  upon  him  by 
press  and  people,  which  were  numerous,  and  often  full  of  vindic- 
tive malice,  One  notable  instance  will  serve  as  a  sample.  The 
whole  matter  is  set  forth  in  the  report  of  the  committee  of  which 
G.  Secretary  Ridgely  was  the  chairman,  and  may  be  found  in 
the  Journal  127-8.  This  action  overwhelmed  the  slanderer;  he 
inserted  in  his  paper  a  full  retraction  and  ample  apology,  and  the 
matter  was  dropped.  But  we  shall  not  proceed  further  in  the 
relation  of  that  which  sheds  no  light  upon  Wildey's  character. 
Further  details  are  unnecessary;  his  name  was  beyond  the 
reach  of  calumny,  and  all  such  efforts  recoiled  upon  his  per- 
secutors. 

When  he  retired  from  office  in  1833,  he  saw  that  success  was 
certain.  At  that  period  he  had  instituted  four  lodges  in  Mary- 
land, organized  the  "  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United 
States,"  and  originated  the  Patriarchal  Order;  he  had  extended  the 
institution  to  Massachusetts,  New  York,  Pennsylvania,  and  the 
District  of  Columbia,  Ohio,  Louisiana,  Kentucky,  and  Delaware, 
and  saw  them  all  united  under  the  present  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United  States.  The  Order  was  no  longer  in  the  hands  of  one 
man,  or  of  a  few  men  ;  but  the  vigorous  offspring,  obeying  the  law 
of  nature,  was  escaping  from  paternal  control,  and  entering  upon 
a  life  of  self-reliance  and  independence.  The  dominion  he  had 
gained  and  the  power  he  had  exercised,  in  the  very  nature  of 
things,  were  slipping  from  his  grasp.  The  hour  of  his  official 
abdication  had  arrived,  when  he  should  resign  the  sceptre,  and 
place  the  crown  on  the  brow  of  a  successor,  in  the  line  of  those 
great  Odd  Fellows  who  were  to  spread  the  fame  of  the  Order  over 
the  whole  earth.  There  was  no  decay  of  his  faculties,  and  no 
diminution  of  his  activity  or  zeal ;  but  the  day  of  personal  govern- 
ment and  single  efforts  had  passed  away,  to  give  place  to  an  era 
of  organization  and  associated  effort,  far  beyond  the  capacity  of 


284  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

any  single  individual,  no  matter  how  greatly  assisted  by  personal 
magnetism  or  upheld  by  sympathizing  confederates. 

This  point  in  his  history  he  could  not  foresee ;  but  when  he 
realized  it  he  bowed  to  the  necessity,  and  with  a  dignity  worthy 
of  the  occasion,  and  a  solemnity  which  truly  reflected  the  emotions 
of  his  soul,  he  uttered  a  "  Farewrell  Address,"  and  descended  from 
the  chair  of  Grand  Sire  to  mingle  in  the  ranks  of  the  brotherhood 
at  large.  This  scene  rises  before  us  as  a  great  event  in  the 
life  of  Wildey,  then  but  fifty-one  years  of  age,  and  in  the 
prime  of  a  manhood  which  but  few  could  match.  Of  all  his 
pioneers* of  1819,  not  one  was  at  his  side:  Entwisle  had  died 
early,  Welch  had  sought  other  associations,  and  of  his  later 
helpers,  Williams  had  deceived  him,  and  the  rest  were  scattered 
and  gone.  Two  alone  were  present  who  sat  in  the  early  councils : 
Scotchburn,  of  his  own  nationality,  who  entered  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.,  November  22,  1822,  and  Mathiot,  who 
was  initiated  early  in  1823,  and  who  was  now  G.  Secretary.  All 
the  others  were  new  men  to  him,  and  of  far  other  sort  than  his 
first  companions.  These  were  the  organizers  who  had  come  in 
to  take  up  the  work  where  he  should  lay  it  down,  and  gratefully 
writing  his  name  upon  it  as  upon  a  precious  cornerstone,  build 
thereon  a  World's  Temple  to  Fraternity,  which  would  alike  per- 
petuate his  labor  and  his  fame.  In  that  celebrated  assembly 
there  were  in  all  ten  persons,  including  the  G.  Sire,  viz  :  Thomas 
Wildey,  M.  W.  G.  Sire ;  Thomas  Scotchburn,  R.  W.  D.  G.  Sire ; 
Augustus  Mathiot,  R.  W.  G.  Secretary ;  Thomas  Morse,  W.  G. 
G. ;  George  Keyser,  Rep.  of  Maryland ;  John  Pearce,  Proxy  of 
New  York ;  Howell  Hopkins,  Rep.  of  Pennsylvania ;  James  L. 
Ridgely,  Proxy  of  Ohio  ;  Samuel  Lucas,  Proxy  of  Louisiana,  and 
Simon  Robinson,  Rep.  of  Delaware. 

We  may  imagine  the  eifect  of  an  adieu  delivered  by  such  a 
man  to  such  an  audience,  and  even  at  this  distance  of  time,  be 
sensible  of  a  feeling  that  he  was  speaking  to  us  also  in  that 
touching  peroration  :  "  Farewell,  my  brethren,  and  permit  me  to 
tender  to  you,  individually,  my  most  affectionate  regard  and 
best  wishes  for  your  continued  health,  happiness,  and  prosperity." 
Of  all  who  heard  that  farewell  of  the  Founder,  but  one,  the 
youngest  of  the  group,  survives,  and  he  alone  can  say  how  deeply 
it  stirs  his  soul  when  he  looks  first  at  that  and  then  at  this — the 
men  of  1833  and  the  men  of  1878— the  trust  committed  to  the 


THOMAS    WILDEY.  285 

former  by  Wildey,  and  the  grand  result  of  to-day  in  the  splendid 
spectacle  of  American  Odd  Fellowship. 

WILDEY    THE    TRAVELLING    MISSIONARY. 

It  will  appear  elsewhere  in  this  history  that  Wildey  did  not 
confine  himself  to  Maryland.  We  have  already  told  of  his  first 
travels  in  1823,  when  in  a  few  months  he  planted  the  Order  suc- 
cessively in  Massachusetts,  New  York  and  Pennsylvania.  With 
the  charter  for  Massachusetts  in  his  hands,  he  passed  through 
Philadelphia  and  New  York,  and  having  instituted  Massachusetts 
Lodge,  No.  1,  and  the  G.  Lodge  of  Massachusetts,  he  returned  to 
put  the  same  machinery  in  motion  in  New  York  and  Pennsyl- 
vania. For  his  expenses  he  received  but  a  trifling  sum,  and  paid 
into  the  treasury  seventy-five  dollars  as  the  charter  fees  of  the 
new  Grand  bodies.  The  expenses  could  not  have  been  less  than 
three  times  the  amount  awarded  him,  the  balance  coming  out  of 
his  own  pocket.  From  that  hour  he  assiduously  labored  until  he 
saw  those  bodies  united  with  that  of  Maryland,  in  a  separate  G. 
Lodge  of  the  United  States  in  1825.  But  this  did  not  satisfy  him 
so  long  as  his  Order  was  only  in  name  independent.  He  was 
present  as  G.  Sire  at  the  session  of  April,  1826,  and  presided  over 
the  body  with  his  usual  capacity,  in  which  but  one  elected  Rep- 
resentative had,  as  yet,  found  his  way.  To  this  meeting  came  a 
message  from  the  parent  body  'in  England,  with  the  present  of 
the  Patriarchal  Degree.  It  was  thankfully  received,  and  the  G. 
Lodge  adjourned.  Wildey  was  no  doubt  reminded  by  this  inci- 
dent of  the  relations  of  the  American  to  the  English  brotherhood, 
and  an  idea  big  with  consequences  flashed  into  his  mind.  With 
him,  to  see  an  advantage  was  at  once  to  improve  it.  Suddenly, 
he,  who  never  missed  a  meeting,  was  absent,  rumors  were  afloat 
that  he  was  doing  something  for  his  brethren  at  some  distant 
place.  But  July  came,  and  with  it  came  the  G.  Sire,  fresh  from 
a  trip  to  the  mother  country. 

It  seems  that  he  reached  Manchester  on  the  17th  June,  1826, 
having  had  a  passage  of  twenty-one  days  from  Baltimore  to 
Liverpool.  With  his  usual  good  fortune  he  obtained  all  that  he 
wished,  and  was  the  subject  of  astonishment  at  his  daring  by  the 
English  brethren.  They  hailed  him  \vith  enthusiasm  as  the 
father  of  trans- Atlantic  Odd  Fellowship.  He  again  embarked, 
and,  after  many  hardships,  landed  in  his  adopted  country.  As 


286  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

soon  as  he  could  recover  from  his  fatigue  and  pass  around  among 
the  lodges,  inspecting  the  work  and  cheering  the  brethren  with 
his  presence,  he  assembled  his  associates  and  told  them  the  story 
of  his  visit.  He  had  in  the  interim  effected  the  diplomatic  success 
of  his  life.  He  produced  and  read  to  them  the  new  charter, 
which  gave  them  independence,  character  and  power.  He  alone 
had  made  the  venture,  and  he  had  succeeded.  With  no  creden- 
tials but  the  reputation  which  preceded  him,  and  no  endorsement 
from  his  Order,  or  petition  from  his  Grand  Lodge,  he  grasped  the 
prize,  and  laid  at  the  feet  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States, 
not  yet  twenty  months  old,  the  crown  by  whose  authority  the 
whole  of  America  wras  rendered  independent.  It  was  a  free  gift 
from  the  Manchester  Unity  to  Wildey,  and  it  was  a  free  gift 
from  Wildey  to  his  brethren ;  he  did  not  insult  their  poverty  by 
speaking  of  expenses,  but  paid  out  of  his  own  purse  every  dollar 
of  the  outlay. 

When  G.  Sire  he  had  also  improvised  the  annual  movable 
committee,  and  although  but  one  report  of  its  labors  was  made 
and  it  utterly  failed  of  its  purpose,  yet  it  no  less  called  out  his 
personal  exertions,  which  again  led  him  to  Massachusetts  and 
New  York,  where  he  did  all  that  man  could  do  to  prop  up  those 
falling  jurisdictions.  We  find  him  afterwards  in  1832  making  a 
pilgrimage  to  the  Mississippi  valley  and  planting  the  Order  in 
New  Orleans.  He  stops  by  the  way  to  cheer  his  brethren  in 
Pittsburg,  and  in  a  few  days  is  found  in  Cincinnati,  visiting  and 
instructing  the  lodges,  and  providing  for  opening  an  Encamp- 
ment. He  stops  also  at  Louisville,  and  arranges  here  to  open  a 
lodge  on  his  return.  After  ten  days'  passage  from  Louisville  he 
reaches  the  Crescent  City,  and  in  that  far  distant  locality  accom- 
plishes the  object  of  his  journey.  He  forms  a  G.  Lodge  and 
opens  an  Encampment  on  the  15th  of  January,  1833,  for  Louis- 
iana. He  then  turns  back  and  opens  the  first  lodge  of  Odd 
Eellows  in  Kentucky ;  still  returning,  he  institutes  the  G.  Lodge 
of  Ohio  on  the  7th  of  February  ;  and  having  left  behind  him  as  a 
fiery  train  the  burning  enthusiasm  he  had  borne  to  the  brethren, 
he  returns  with  happy  alacrity  to  Baltimore. 

Again,  in  1833,  he  visited  New  York,  and  left  no  effort  un- 
tried to  rouse  that  jurisdiction  from  its  apathy.  On  the  4th  of 
July  he  visited  New  Jersey,  and  having  reconciled  every  differ- 
ence in  that  State,  he  located  its  G.  Lodge  and  opened  an  En- 


THOMAS    WILDEY.  287 

carnpment.  Still  yearning  for  Massachusetts,  lie  again  treads  her 
soil  and  invokes  all  his  energies  to  overcome  her  apathy.  Re- 
turning,  he  finds  the  Order  in  Rhode  Island  disbanded,  but 
zealously  infuses  new  life  into  the  brethren  and  brings  them  to- 
gether. Having  granted  a  charter  to  New  Jersey,  he  is  again 
among  them,  and  on  the  31st  of  August  opens  the  G.  Lodge  of 
that  State.  These  were  his  missionary  labors  when  he  held  the 
office  of  G.  Sire;  we  are  here  confined  to  the  outlines,  the  par- 
ticulars would  fill  a  volume. 

In  1835,  by  the  request  of  his  successor,  he  again  visited 
Boston,  to  revive,  if  possible,  in  that  noble  city,  the  expiring 
embers  of  the  Order.  There,  with  P.  Grand  Wood,  afterwards 
the  heroic  pioneer  of  Ehode  Island,  he  again  called  together  the 
Spartan  band  yet  in  the  field  to  retrieve  the  fortunes  of  the  day. 
But  the  hour  of  that  splendid  jurisdiction  was  not  yet,  and  it 
was  not  until  1842  that  Massachusetts  began  her  present  career 
of  greatness.  Having  visited  and  labored  at  all  the  intermediate 
points,  including  New  York,  he  returns  again  to  work  in  his- 
subordinate  lodge  and  in  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland.  In  183T 
he  was  sent  to  Richmond,  and  on  the  16th  of  August  he  opened 
an  Encampment  in  that  city,  having  on  the  20th  instituted  the 
G.  Lodge  of  Virginia  and  installed  the  officers. 

On  the  3d  of  October  of  the  same  year,  on  motion  of  Rep. 
Ridgely,  he  was  made  Travelling  Agent  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
United  States,  and  accepted  the  appointment.  In  March,  1837, 
we  find  him  again  at  Pittsburg ;  he  passes  thence  to  Wheeling, 
and  through  the  interior  of  Ohio,  and  again  makes  his  way  to 
Cincinnati.  Accompanied  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  Ohio,  with  a 
band  of  music,  he  embarks  and  makes  a  triumphant  entry  into 
Louisville.  In  his  progress  he  reaches  Natchez  on  the  25th  of 
April,  establishes  a  lodge  and  forms  an  Encampment.  Before 
leaving  he  also  institutes  the  G.  Lodge  of  Mississippi.  He  again 
enters  New  Orleans  and  imparts  instruction  to  the  lodges. 
Afterwards,  entering  Alabama,  he  opened  an  Encampment  in 
Mobile,  and  provided  for  the  institution  of  Mobile  Lodge,  No.  2. 
When  at  New  Orleans  he  granted  a  charter  for  a  lodge  to  be  located 
in  Houston,  in  the  republic  of  Texas ;  the  first  lodge  opened  in  a 
foreign  land  by  authority  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United 
States.  On  his  return  he  institutes  a  lodge  and  an  Encampment 
at  St.  Louis,  and  opened  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  State  of  Missouri. 


288  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

From  St.  Louis  he  goes  to  Alton,  opens  there  a  lodge  and  En- 
campment, and  in  a  few  days  institutes  the  G.  Lodge  of  Illinois. 
Still  moving  on,  he  visited  Mineral  Point  in  Wisconsin,  and  added 
to  the  Order  a  subordinate  lodge  and  an  Encampment.  But  why 
particularize  ?  He  multiplied  himself  in  every  direction  as  a  very 
apostle  of  fraternity,  building  up  the  cause,  and  imparting  new 
life  to  every  aspiration  of  the  new-born  organizations. 

All  his  acts  in  the  premises  were  duly  confirmed  by  his  prin- 
cipals, as  marked  by  a  wise  discretion  and  in  every  way  for  the 
good  of  the  Order.  By  this  time  the  Order  had  spread  so  widely 
and  had  grown  so  rapidly,  that  it  was  no  longer  necessary  to 
travel  into  the  States;  application  followed  application  and 
lodge  followed  lodge  in  so  many  directions,  rising  up  to  crown 
his  labors,  that  even  he  was  satisfied  to  sit  down  and  witness  the 
grand  uprising. 

Although  he  had  now  attained  to  and  passed  all  the  honors 
and  distinctions  which  the  Order  could  confer,  and  was  no 
longer  invested  with  the  robes  and  prerogatives  of  office,  he  did 
not,  as  men  generally  do,  throw  off  as  a  worn  garment  his 
interest  and  regard  for  his  early  love,  although,  in  so  far  as  the 
continued  prosperity  of  the  Order  was  concerned,  he  might  thus 
li-ve  done.  There  still  remained  a  few  of  his  early  co-laborers 
in  the  vineyard,  and  he  had  raised  up  spirits  kindred  to  his  own, 
whose  character,  talents,  and  devotion  to  the  institution  offered 
the  amplest  security  for  its  safety.  But  no  ephemeral  ambition 
for  momentary  fame  or  popular  applause  had  supplied  incentive 
to  his  love  for  the  Order ;  self  had  no  agency  in  giving  impulse 
to  his  generous  heart :  on  the  contrary,  all  his  efforts,  all  his 
offices  and  toil,  were  self-sacrificing  from  first  to  last.  Through- 
out his  whole  career  as  an  Odd  Fellow,  private  interests,  health, 
comfort,  and  worldly  advantage  in  all  its  forms,  were  surren- 
dered freely  and  nobly  upon  the  altar  of  the  Order  he  loved  and 
cherished  with  a  devotion  that  never  wavered,  and  which,  as  age 
advanced  upon  him  and  infirmities  crept  on,  became  more  and 
more  intense.  By  virtue  of  his  honors,  as  P.  G.  Sire,  he  was 
under  the  constitution  a  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United  States,  but,  representing  no  particular  constituency,  he 
^enjoyed  no  vote.  He  was  nevertheless  ever  at  his  post,  per- 
forming active  service  upon  committees,  and  during  a  period  of 
thirty-six  years  was  never  absent  from  his  seat  in  that  body,  how- 


THOMAS    WILDEY.  289 

ever  distant  its  place  of  meeting  from  his  home,  except  on  three 
occasions,  on  each  of  which  he  was  confined  by  severe  illness. 
In  1840  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  ordered  the  full 
length  portrait  of  Bro.  Wildey,  which  now  graces  the  walls  of 
the  Egyptian  saloon  in  Baltimore,  and  in  1841  again  deputed 
him  upon  official  business  to  the  East  and  North.  From  this 
period  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  which  had  hitherto 
been  for  the  most  part  composed  of  proxy  representation,  began 
to  consider  plans  for  assembling  the  State  jurisdictions  by 
proper  personal  representatives.  In  1842  the  measure  was  set 
on  foot,  and  consummated  in  1843.  The  effect  of  this  wise  act 
of  legislation  upon  the  prosperity  of  the  Order  it  is  almost  im- 
possible to  value.  It  assembled  Representatives  in  1843  from 
twenty  States,  and  in  September,  1860,  assembled  Representa- 
tives from  every  State  in  the  Union,  not  excepting  Oregon,  and 
from  the  District  of  Columbia  and  the  Territory  of  Nebraska. 

This  body,  thus  constituted,  has  since  1843  been  the  soul  of 
Odd  Fellowship,  and  under  its  auspices  the  Order  has  covered 
this  continent.  Stretching  on  the  north  from  the  British  Pos- 
sessions, it  reaches  to  the  Gulf,  and  from  the  Gulf  to  the  Pacific 
shore ;  sweeping  beyond  the  Continent,  it  rests  upon  the  Ha- 
waiian Isles,  and  thence  careers  still  onward,  making  its  abode 
among  the  teeming  hills  and  golden  sands  of  distant  Australia. 
Notwithstanding  the  affairs  of  the  Order  were  now  committed 
to  competent  and  zealous  hands,  and  Odd  Fellowship  under  their 
direction  was  everywhere  expanding  and  prospering,  Bro.  Wildey 
did  not  cease  to  cherish  the  liveliest  interest  in  its  administration, 
and  continued  to  be  present  at  each  Annual  Communication  of 
the  Grand  Body,  no  matter  where  convened. 

WILDEY    THE    PATRIARCH. 

His  crowning  good  fortune  lay  in  this,  that  when  the  work 
was  done,  he  knew  and  accepted  the  issue.  For  such  a  man  to 
cease  to  lead  was  almost  to  cease  to  live.  He  recognized  it,  but 
was  satisfied ;  his  fame  was  secure,  and  he  foresaw  that  new 
leaders  were  the  necessary  programme  of  the  future. 

Thus  we  have  drawn  one  after  another  the  subtle  threads 
comprising  the  character  of  this  eccentric  man.  Many  of  them 
are  of  little  worth,  but  others  that  give  color  to  the  fabric  will 
be  found  to  be  of  gold.  He  rose  above  the  level  of  early  asso- 

10 


290  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

ciations,  to  teach  wholesome  truths,  to  confer  a  great  boon  upon 
his  fellow-men.  How  sweet  his  lessons,  how  like  the  cheerful 
sunshine!  how  superior  that  philosophy  which  makes  life  a 
blessing  and  death  a  victory,  whose  origin  is  benevolence  and  its 
end  philanthropy ! 

Wildey  did  not  rise  with  the  modern  progress  of  the  Order ;. 
the  most  that  can  be  said  of  him  is,  that  he  did  not  seem  to 
descend.  His  work  had  not  added  grace  to  his  manner,  or  led 
him  to  improve  his  education.  The  frank,  almost  abrupt,  address 
that  was  native  to  him,  always  remained,  and  to  the  very  last  his 
habits  were  peculiar.  Those  who  knew  him  in  later  years,  won- 
dered at  his  prominence,  and  saw  nothing  in  the  man  to  explain 
it.  Measured  by  the  standard  of  his  work  when  expanded,  he 
seemed  feeble  and  insignificant.  His  appearance  and  conduct 
were  not  calculated  to  impress  the  observer  with  the  opinion  that 
he  was  in  the  presence  of  more  than  a  very  ordinary  man.  In 
fact,  some  natural  emotions  of  concern  would  at  times  arise,  as  to 
whether  indeed  it  was  proper  to  look  to  him  as  the  source  of  so 
much  that  gratified  the  pride  and  taste  of  so  great  a  number  of 
cultivated  persons.  The  emotion  was  natural,  and  all  the  appear- 
ances of  the  object  warranted  its  existence.  He  became,  to  a 
great  extent,  a  solitary  man,  and  lived  much  in  the  past.  Of 
social  life  outside  of  the  Order,  he  had  but  little  or  none  ;  although 
successful  in  business,  that  business  was  not  of  a  kind  to  give  him 
much  credit  with  his  fellow-citizens.  At  the  last  he  was  left 
behind  by  the  master-minds  who  had  become  the  guardians  of 
the  Order.  If  he  had  improved  himself  to  meet  the  demand 
upon  him,  it  might  have  been  different ;  but  he  never  inclined 
that  way. 

His  mind  was  unconsciously  always  recurring  to  the  old 
scenes  and  his  first  companions.  His  heart  was  with  the  modern 
era,  but  his  memories,  made  sacred  by  a  thousand  recollections, 
were  most  faithful  to  the  older  times.  The  new  names  that  had 
sprung  up,  and  the  new  men  who  were  leading  the  enterprise, 
seemed  to  confuse  him,  and  inspire  a  sort  of  wonder  that  such 
things  should  be.  The  difficulty  of  reconciling  his  apparent  cir- 
cumstances with  his  real  place  in  the  Order,  was  as  great  to  him 
as  it  was  to  others.  Inaction  had  come  upon  him,  to  relax  his 
energies  and  blunt  his  sensibilities.  He  was  the  ancestor  among 
his  heirs  already  in  possession — the  magician  whose  arts  had  been 


THOMAS    WILDE Y.  291 

improved  upon,  and  himself  supplanted  by  those  more  skilful. 
His  day's  work  was  done  and  the  night  came  on  apace,  and 
he  had  nothing  to  fill  up  the  interval.  Strange  multitudes 
came  to  look  upon  him,  and  spoke  kind  words  of  greeting ; 
but  they  were  not  his  familiars,  and  in  many  cases  he  saw 
that  they  were  rather  surprised  than  satisfied.  His  work, 
indeed,  was  done,  but  it  was  well  done,  and  the  hardest  task- 
master could  exact  no  more. 

Age  also  with  its  train  of  evils  was  upon  him — a  cheerless 
old  age  for  one  so  fond  of  physical  enjoyment.  His  early  com- 
panions had  fallen  away,  and  later  associates  could  not  answer 
to  his  yearnings,  or  fill  again  the  vacant  seats.  The  old  land- 
marks were  disappearing  one  after  another,  until  he  felt  strange 
and  uncomfortable  even  in  his  favorite  haunts.  He  might 
well  weep  that  no  such  world  as  he  had  contended  in,  remained 
for  further  conquest.  His  native  force,  almost  without  parallel, 
had  led  him  to  a  life  of  boundless  activity :  all  this  was  spent, 
and  he  had  to  wrestle  with  the  inclination  when  the  power  to 
execute  had  departed.  It  was  only  left  to  him  to  leave  a  world 
in  which  he  could  no  longer  work  his  will  as  a  potent  force 
in  the  aifairs  of  men.  There  w^ere  times  indeed  when  the  old 
flame  burnt  brightly  in  the  socket,  and  at  some  festival  his 
gaiety  returned.  Then,  age  forgotten,  he  rehearsed  the  story  of 
the  early  days,  and  made  his  auditors  the  confidants  of  the  hopes 
and  fears  of  the  pioneers.  He  was  young  again,  and  for  a  mo- 
ment the  lapse  of  years  vanished  from  his  memory.  On  such 
occasions  he  sat,  a  noble  wreck  of  enjoyment — laughing  with 
true  philosophy  at  ills  he  could  not  avoid.  True  to  his  old 
instincts  he  sought  out  new  mysteries,  and  gave  his  approbation 
to  the  rising  secret  societies  of  the  later  time.  Everywhere  he 
was  respected ;  his  locks  had  fallen  away  and  his  brow  was 
wrinkled,  but  his  heart  was  young.  Youth  gathered  around 
him  as  a  relic  of  the  happy  past,  and  joined  with  glee  in  his 
ancient  minstrelsy ;  while  age  and  experience  could  scarce  repress 
a  sigh  of  envy  that  time  was  so  tender  of  him.  But  this  was 
not  often,  and  he  slowly  yielded  to  the  days  that  sapped  his 
strength  and  hurried  him  to  meet  his  conqueror.  It  might  have 
been  otherwise ;  if  he  could  have  kept  pace  with  his  advancing 
reputation  he  might  have  presided  among  his  successors  as  a 
patriarch,  blessed  and  honored  by  his  children.  No  man  in 


292  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

America  had  such  an  opportunity  as  he  to  wear  the  hard-earned 
laurel  in  his  lifetime  and  win  fresh  plaudits  on  his  final  passage. 
But  this  by  nature  as  well  as  by  circumstances  was  denied  him,  and 
he  did  not  enjoy  the  double  triumph.  Yet  after  all,  his  shade  may 
well  rest  satisfied  with  the  continuous  reputation  and  glory  which 
every  year  adds  to  his  renown. 

THE    DEATH    OF    THE    FOUNDER. 

The  great  Odd  Fellow  was  now  out  of  office,  and  to  all  appear- 
ances was  henceforth  free  from  its  cares  and  anxieties,  and  might 
joyfully  hasten  to  the  otium  cum  dignitate  of  private  life. 
But  in  laying  down  his  official  rank  he  merely  disrobed  himself 
of  regalia,  of  formal  apparel ;  the  real  life  of  the  man  illuminated 
him  with  a  halo  which  no  arbitrary  distinction  or  blaze  of  repu- 
tation could  bestow.  In  his  lodge  and  encampment,  and  in  his 
State  Grand  Lodge,  he  was  again  the  brother  of  1819  and  1821, 
and  in  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  had  eagerly  served 
as  proxy,  representative,  or  filled  as  actively  as  ever  positions  of 
special  trust  by  the  appointment  of  his  successors.  The  retro- 
spect rose  before  him  in  bold  and  vivid  outline :  the  London  boy 
3iad  crossed  the  ocean,  and  for  himself  and  others  had  founded  a 
reputation  which  was  hailed  with  delight  in  England.  We  may 
imagine  his  reflections  when  he  traveled  in  memory  over  the 
scenes  of  his  life  in  America :  first,  a  stranger,  poor  and  neglected  ; 
then  a  well-to-do  but  obscure  mechanic ;  then  the  beginner  of  a 
club,  with  a  grip  and  a  sign  to  keep  intruders  away.  He  looks 
again :  the  club  has  become  a  society,  and  the  motto,  "  mutual 
relief"  indicates  the  progress  of  his  labors.  Now  his  path  is 
more  defined,  as  written  law  shapes  the  rude  elements  into  har- 
mony, and  drills  into  compact  form  the  band  which  has  chosen 
him  its  commander.  The  scene  shifts  :  he  is  in  many  States  and 
among  great  populations ;  strangers  seek  him  and  enlist  under 
his  banners ;  and  those  ensigns,  fresh  from  the  battles  of  HUMAN- 
ITY, have  other  and  prouder  mottoes,  honorably  won  :  Friendship, 
Love,  Truth.  The  curtain  again  rises  upon  his  leaguers  in  coun- 
cil and  their  now  distinguished  chief;  he  is  presiding  over  coun- 
sellors fit  for  senate  chambers,  and  with  potent  sway  rules 
a  rising  empire  of  benevolence  and  charity.  All  this 
was  history,  and  the  curtain  might  have,  and  indeed  did,  reveal 
more  than  we  can  well  describe ;  and  having  so  much  more  to 


THOMAS    WILDEY.  293 

disclose  to  him  and  to  us,  with  God's  blessing  it  will  never  fall ; 
for  the  panorama  of  such  a  life  will  pass  and  continue,  and  freshly 
enter,  to  fill  us  with  astonishment  and  joy,  until  the  influence  of 
that  life  shall  fail,  or  the  legacy  he  left  to  posterity  shall  perish. 
The  Grand  .Representatives  who  were  present  have  doubtless 
a  vivid  memory  of  his  unexpected  appearance  in  his  seat  at  the 
annual  session  held  at  Nashville  in  1860,  pressed  beneath  the 
weight  of  years  and  disease,  with  infirm  and  tottering  step,  but 
his  heart  still  true  to  its  youthful  instincts ;  and  again  at  the 
session  in  1861,  at  Baltimore,  when  they  looked  upon  him  in  the 
Grand  Lodge  chamber  for  the  last  time,  receiving  the  congratu- 
lations and  greetings  of  his  grateful  brethren,  with  a  counte- 
nance, although  furrowed  and  stricken,  yet  radiant  with  joy  at 
the  consciousness  that  his  mission  had  not  been  in  vain. 
In  a  few  weeks  after  the  adjournment,  his  body  sunk  to  its 
final  rest,  ere  perhaps  some  of  them  had  reached  their  distant 
homes.  In  the  Wildey  eulogy  at  Front  Street  Theatre,  Grand 
Secretary  Ridgely  told  the  story,  which  even  now  unseals  the 
fountain  of  his  tears.  He  said  :  "  It  was  my  fortune  to  witness 
his  last  few  days  of  life,  to  have  received,  as  it  were  from  his 
own  lips,  his  parting  words  for  his  brethren.  Amid  the  suffer- 
ings of  the  body  and  general  prostration  his  mind  never  wan- 
dered ;  it  was  clear  and  unclouded,  and  dwelt  almost  exclusively 
upon  that  subject  which  had  engrossed  it  for  more  than  forty 
years.  His  worldly  affairs  gave  him  no  concern,  and  he  declined 
all  notice  of  them.  The  great  effort  of  his  soul  was  now  to  bid 
adieu  in  some  formal  way  to  us  all,  to  assemble  us  in  his  mind 
before  him,  and  to  pronounce  a  blessing  upon  our  labors.  Look- 
ing him  earnestly  in  the  face  as  it  mirrored  this  noble  sentiment, 
I  expressed  a  readiness  to  commit  his  thoughts  to  writing, 
6  To-morrow  !  '  he  feebly  uttered,  i  to-morrow !  '  Alas !  that 
morrow  never  came  to  him ;  the  gorgeous  sun,  which  was  then 
pouring  his  golden  flood  of  light  upon  his  pillow,  his  eyes  never 
again  beheld.  As  I  left  him  I  grasped  his  hand,  overwhelmed 
by  the  gushing  memories  of  the  past :  we  had  been  long  com- 
panions ;  when  but  a  boy  comparatively,  he  admitted  me  to  his 
confidence  and  to  his  counsels;  he  had  honored  me  with  his 
friendship,  which  had  never  been  interrupted  during  a  period  of 
more  than  thirty  years ;  I  had  been  his  contemporary  in  the 
Order,  and  a  witness  of  his  labors  and  their  splendid  reward : 


294:  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

these  thoughts  came  fresh  and  unbidden  as  I  looked  upon  his 
familiar  and  still  serene  countenance ;  I  felt  that  I  should  not 
see  him  here  below  again.  I  was  right ;  I  never  did,  and  never 
shall." 

"  To-morrow !  "  he  feebly  whispered  — "  to-morrow !  "  but 
to  him  that  morrow  never  came.  That  night  he  crossed  the 
gulf  and  sailed  out  upon  the  boundless  and  unknown.  Did  he 
mean  to  fix  the  day  of  final  parting  and  of  his  last  farewell  to 
his  brethren?  It  may  be  so;  but  if  it  is  given  to  the  dying  to 
have  the  gift  of  prophecy,  this  may  have  been  a  prediction.  To- 
morrow !  yes,  a  long  and  glorious  to-morrow.  Did  he  see  that 
grave  assembly  of  the  magnates  of  the  Order,  listening  to  the 
panegyric  that  was  the  first  loud  echo  of  his  fame  ?  Did  he 
read  the  inscription  on  the  marble  to  be  reared  by  his  lodges  in 
Maryland  ?  Did  he  witness  the  splendid  procession  that  with 
waviftg  banners  thronged  the  streets  of  Baltimore  to  do  homage 
to  his  memory  ?  Did  he  see  them  —  the  uncovered  representa- 
tives of  a  nation  of  brethren  unveiling  his  monument  with 
paeans?  Did  he  see  TEMPLAR  LODGE  of  California  sending  a 
MORSE  to  plant  his  Order  among  the  millions  of  Germany? 
Did  he  see  this  history  written  to  record  his  deeds  and  ensure  his 
full  meed  of  reputation  to  the  latest  generation  ?  And  did 
there  in  that  dread  hour  burst  upon  his  vision  the  triumph  of 
fraternity  throughout  the  world  ?  "  To-morrow !  "  yes,  hero  of 
humanity,  that  is  the  legacy  thou  hast  left  thy  children! 
He  died  in  the  very  arms  of  his  Order :  they  were  pleasant  in 
their  lives,  and  in  his  death  they  were  not  divided. 

Thus  fell  the  last  and  greatest  of  the  Trio  —  he  who  was 
primus  inter  pares  ;  and  the  roll  of  public  benefactors  had  one 
more  added  to  its  illustrious  catalogue.  The  land  was  full  of 
his  successors,  for,  having  no  offspring,  mankind  was  his  adopted 
family.  His  last  utterances  should  become  household  words 
with  orphans  and  widows,  the  sick  and  the  suffering,  for  they 
were  spoken  by  the  tongue  of  a  philanthropist  and  patriarch 
whose  life  was  a  boon  to  the  poor  and  sorrowing.  With  all  the 
pomp  and  ceremony  that  befitted  the  occasion  of  "  funeral 
honors,"  and  a  mourning  train  that  filled  the  thoroughfares  of 
his  adopted  city,  he  was  laid  in  Greenmount  Cemetery,  where 
his  early  disciples,  Mathiot  and  Marley  and  Boyd,  afterwards  lay 
down  beside  him  ;  three  marked  men  in  our  history,  illustrating 
the  three  cardinal  virtues  of  FRIENDSHIP,  LOVE  and  TRUTH. 


WILDEY   MONUMENT,    BROADWAY,    BALTIMORE,  1863. 


THOMAS    WILDEY. 


295 


The  Founder  had  outlived  two  generations,  and  was  in  his 
eightieth  year  when  lie  passed  away,  on  the  19th  day  of  October, 
1861,  leaving  42  jurisdictions  and  200,000  Odd  Fellows  as  his 
pyramid  :  a  prouder  tribute  than  ever  rose  to  Egyptian  greatness 
by  the  sacred  waters  of  the  Nile. 


nl 


; 


GREENMOUNT   CEMETERY,   BALTIMORE,   MD. 


CHAPTER   XIII. 

THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH. 

Friendship  above  all  ties  does  bind  the  heart, 
And  faith  iii  friendship  Is  the  noblest  part. 

—LORD  OKKERY. 

Didst  thou  but  know  the  Inly  touch  of  love, 
Thou  vouldst  .as  soon  go  kindle  fire  with  snow, 
As  seek  to  quench  the  fire  of  love  with  words. 

— SHAKSPEARE. 

This  above  all,  to  thine  own  self  be  true; 
And  it  must  follow,  as  the  night' the  day, 
Theu  canst  not  then  be  false  to  any  man. 

— SHAKSPEA.RE. 

The  scattered  lodges  of  England  in  the  earliest  times  had 
but  simple  ceremony ;  it  was  limited  to  "  making "  the  term 
for  an  initiation,  and  the  formula  for  opening  and  closing  a 
lodge.  In  January,  1814,  the  Manchester  Unity  formed  a  federal 
independency.  Its  first  step  was  in  the  direction  of  a  secret 
work.  Before  that  time  the  beneficial  feature  was  the  distinctive 
trait,  and  ritualistic  elements  were  but  little  known  or  considered- 
It  was  about  two  years  before  it  took  a  form  which  led  to  any- 
thing like  practical  results.  A  committee  was  appointed  with 
instructions  to  prepare  a  series  of  suitable  lectures,  with  appro- 
priate signs,  passwords  and  grips ;  and  to  spare  no  pains  to  make 
them  interesting  and  instructive.  Although  deficient  in  literary 
capacity,  they  assiduously  wrought  out  a  scheme,  and  in  Hay,, 
1816,  reported  the  result.  It  consisted  of  three  degrees  and  ac- 
companying lectures,  afterwards  known  as  the  First  or  White, 
the  Second  or  Blue,  and  the  Third  or  Scarlet  Degree.  They 
were  printed,  adopted,  and  furnished  to  the  Order.  As  may 
readily  be  supposed,  they  were  of  rude  construction ;  but  the  in- 
elegant diction  that  subsequently  grated  harshly  on  educated 
ears  deeply  impressed  the  simple  men  who  then  constituted  the 
larger  element  interested. 

It  does  not  follow  that  degrees  were  at  this  time  devised  ;  to 
the  contrary,  no  claim  for  such  an  origination  was  then  set  up. 

(296) 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.          297 

The  Manchester  Unity  separated  from  the  London  Order,  called 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  England.  Before  that  separation  it  had  all 
the  work,  if  any,  of  its  superior.  We  do  not  know  its  nature  or 
extent,  and  cannot  pass  judgment,  therefore,  upon  the  respective 
claims  of  each.  From  what  we  can  gather,  it  appears  that 
this  was  a  revision  and  introduction,  and  not  an  origination  on 
the  part  of  the  LTnity.  The  degrees  were  only  conferred  on 
those  who  had  proved  themselves  by  regular  attendance  upon 
lodge  duties  for  stated  periods.  In  1818  the  conditions  were  as 
follows :  for  the  White  Degree,  faithful  membership  during  three 
months ;  for  the  Blue  Degree,  six  months ;  and  for  the  Scarlet 
Degree,  twelve  months.  No  money  charge  was  exacted,  and 
each  candidate  was  subjected  to  the  ballot.  The  lectures  were 
not  confined  to  candidates,  but  were  to  be  read  at  regular  periods 
in  each  district  for  the  common  benefit.  This  was  the  law  until 
1830,  when  the  White  Degree  was  given  at  any  time  after  the 
pay merit  for  initiation ;  the  Covenant  three  months  afterwards, 
and  so  at  intervals  of  three  months  for  all  the  degrees. 

The  date  of  the  production  of  the  fourth  or  Golden  Rule  De- 
gree cannot  be  fixed,  or  wrhether  it  preceded  those  of  Covenant 
and  Remembrance.  No  records  attest  its  origin  or  history.  It 
first  appears  at  the  organization  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of 
the  U.  S.  on  February  22,  1821.  Six  P.  Grands  only  were 
present  on  the  occasion ;  one  of  them  had  the  degree  and  con- 
ferred it  upon  the  other  five.  Wildey  was  certainly  not  the  in- 
structor, or  the  faithful  minutes  which  never  forgot  him  would  have 
set  it  down.  The  minute  is  suggestive :  "  P.  G.  Larkam  having 
been  duly  admitted  to  membership,  the  Golden  Rule  Degree  was- 
then  conferred  on  five  P.  Grands."  This  seems  to  settle  the 
question  of  an  English  origin,  and  that  Larkam  brought  it  over 
and  gave  it  out.  There  has  been  a  surmise  that  it  was  not 
imported,  and  was  in  fact  Entwisle's  work,  but  there  is  no  foun- 
dation for  the  theory.  Until  1827  the  honor  of  receiving  this 
degree  was  limited  to  P.  Grands,  wrho  had  been  admitted  by 
vote  to  membership  in  the  G.  Lodge.  It  was  conferred  in  the 
body  of  the  G.  Lodge,  until,  with  the  Patriarchal  and  Purple 
Degrees,  it  was  transferred  to  the  Encampment  branch  of  the 
Order.  It  then  took  its  present  place,  of  the  second  in  that 
ritual.  It  was  conferred  on  the  first  eleven  as  complimentary; 
after  which  the  fee  of  one  dollar  was  required  to  be  paid,  and 
applicants  were  subjected  to  the  ballot. 


298  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

RITUAL    OF    WASHINGTON    LODGE. 

At  the  beginning,  Washington  Lodge  had  no  ritual.  As 
stated  elsewhere,  its  first  members  were  of  different  sections  of 
the  Order ;  they  had  no  common  lesson  to  receive  or  to  impart. 
:;Such  property  could  not  be  lawfully  in  their  possession.  They 
were  entirely  ignorant  of  the  work  of  the  Manchester  Unity  until 
instructed  by  Henry  M.  Jackson.  He  brought  the  subordinate 
lodge  degrees,  the  initiatory  form,  and  the  opening  and  closing 
ceremony.  At  the  institution  they  had  absolutely  nothing,  except 
perhaps  a  grip,  a  password,  and  an  obligation.  That  the  Man- 
chester Unity  had  the  White,  Blue  and  Scarlet  Degrees  is  fully 
verified.  A  printed  book  with  the  imprint  of  Mark  Wardle, 
Manchester,  1824,  is  now  in  our  archives.  It  contains  these 
•degrees  in  full,  as  they  then  existed.  Washington  Lodge  had 
"them  in  manuscript  as  the  foundation  of  the  system  afterwards 
completed.  When  the  two  American,  or  intermediate  degrees, 
.appeared,  the  five  constituted  the  subordinate  degrees  of  the 
Order.  The  origin  of  these  latter  is  honorable  to  all  concerned. 

THE    AMERICAN    DEGREES   OF    COVENANT    AND    REMEMBRANCE. 

Previous  to  1821,  when  Washington  Lodge  was  ruling  by  its 
•committee  of  P.  Grands,  a  remarkable  occurrence  gave  a  great 
impulse  to  the  secret  work.  One  of  the  P.  Grands,  John  Pawson 
Entwisle,  was  carefully  devising  two  degrees  with  suitable  lec- 
tures, to  be  used  with  the  three  already  adopted.  When  prepared, 
they  were  submitted  to  the  committee  and  were  approved  ;  and 
•on  the  25th  of  November,  1820,  the  lodge  was  duly  notified  of 
their  acceptance  and  adoption  as  intermediate  degrees.  They 
were  designated  "the  degrees  of  the  Covenant  and  Remembrance." 
The  impression  made  by  them  must  have  been  very  great.  On 
February  22,  1821,  when  the  G.  Lodge  was  formally  instituted, 
provision  was  made  for  its  pecuniary  support.  The  regulations 
for  that  purpose  fix  a  great  value  on  the  new  work.  The  charges 
were  "  ten  dollars  for  the  dispensation  ;  ten  dollars  for  the  White, 
Blue  and  Scarlet  Degrees,  and  books  of  charges,  and  ten  dollars 
for  the  intermediate  degrees,  called  the  Covenant  and  Remem- 
brance." These  items  make  up  the  amount  of  the  charter  fee, 
thirty  dollars.  It  is  clear  from  this  that  they  were  relatively 
more  greatly  valued  than  the  old  work.  When  G.  Sire  Wildey 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH. 

made  liis  visit  to  England  in  1826,  he  presented  them  to  the 
Manchester  Unity.  The  Annual  Movable  Committee  of  Not- 
tingham, on  June  6,  1827,  gratefully  accepted  the  gift;  thus  our 
first  G.  Secretary  enriched  the  ritual  of  the  mother  country. 

THE    PAST    OFFICIAL    DEGREES. 

The  next  accession  were  the  P.  Official  Degrees.  Tho  min- 
utes of  the  Unity  are  as  silent  about  them  as  about  the  Golden 
Rule.  They  came  to  us  from  that  body ;  the  date  of  their  arrival 
is  not  fixed,  but  it  must  have  been  soon  after  the  English  charter 
was  granted.  Their  charge-book,  issued  by  Mark  Wardle,  1824, 
was  a  new  edition,  revised  and  corrected.  They  are  set  out  in 
that  book  as  part  of  the  work.  These  degrees  are  unwritten 
instructions,  in  symbolic  language,  without  lectures,  and 
designed  simply  as  rewards  for  official  service  in  a  subordi- 
nate lodge.  They  are  known  as  P.  K  G.,  P.  Y.  G.,  and  P.  Sec.'s 
degrees.  Their  original  form  remains  unchanged  ;  but  by  special 
provision  the  P.  Y.  G.  and  P.  S.  degrees  may  be  conferred  out  of 
the  usual  order.  The  G.  L.  IT.  S.,  in  1856,  (Digest  444  a),  pro- 
vided, "  In  case  of  a  vacancy  in  the  office  of  N.  G.  or  Y.  G.  of  a 
subordinate  lodge,  and  all  qualified  members  refusing  to  accept 
cither  of  said  offices,  the  lodge  may,  by  dispensation,  elect  a  Scar- 
let Degree  member  thereto,  who  shall  be  entitled  to  the  honors, 
as  in  the  case  of  constituting  a  new  lodge."  Also,  in  1874,  (Digest 
445  a),  that,  "  the  G.  Lodges  of  the  several  jurisdictions,  subordi- 
nate to  this  R.  W.  G.  L.,  are  hereby  authorized  to  cause  to  be 
conferred  the  honorary  degree  of  Past  Secretary  on  any  P.  Grand 
in  good  standing,  who  has  served  a  lawful  term  as  Y.  Grand  and 
N.  Grand  in  a  subordinate  lodge." 

The  first  notice  of  these  degrees  is  found  in  the  Unity  proceed- 
ings held  at  Manchester  on  September  5th,  1822,  as  follows :  "  Re- 
solved, that  no  elective  officer  be  entitled  to  his  signs  as  a  Past 
Officer  until  he  has  passed  the  office  for  which  the  sign  is  intended, 
in  a  meritorious  manner."  As  some  irregularities  had  crept  into 
their  proper  administration,  on  June  25th,  1824,  further  legisla- 
tion was  resorted  to :  "  Resolved,  that  the  G.  Master,  or  D.  G.  M. 
in  his  absence,  (tall  quarterly,  (or  as  often  as  they  see  fit  or  neces- 
sary) general  lectures,  at  which  the  lectures  of  P.  Officers,  the  signs 
and  passwords,  may  be  given  to  those  entitled  to  the  same,  to  pre- 
vent such  mistakes  as  have  had  frequent  occurrence."  Neither  of 


300  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

these  resolutions  would  seem  to  refer  to  something  just  introduced,, 
but  rather  to  what  had  been  already  practiced.  They  could  only 
apply  to  work  already  generally  adopted ;  and  some  considerable 
time  must  have  elapsed,  in  which  the  evil  had  crept  in  for  which 
they  were  the  remedy.  Hence,  these  degrees  had  been  known 
and  imparted  before  that  time.  As  early  as  February  22d,  1823, 
it  was  enacted  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.  "  That 
each  member  of  the  G.  Lodge  be  required  to  give  the  P.  Grand's 
sign  and  password  before  they  can  be  admitted  into  the  G. 
Lodge."  Thus,  the  Past  Officer's  degree  was  already  in  use,  and 
was  at  that  time  made  the  test  of  membership  in  that  body.  It 
continued  to  furnish  the  working  sign  and  password  of  the  G. 
Lodge  in  both  its  singular  and  dual  conditions,  until  the  adop- 
tion of  a  special  G.  Lodge  degree. 

THE  ROYAL  PURPLE  DEGREE. 

The  next  in  order  of  time  was  that  degree  now  known  as  the 
Royal  Purple.  It  was  first  designated  as  the  Fifth  Degree,  after- 
wards the  Past  Grand's  or  the  Mazarine  Blue  Degree ;  purple  at 
last  became  the  color,  as  indicative  of  its  order  of  succession.  It 
is  clearly  an  American  production,  but  there  has  been  no  special 
claim  of  authorship ;  it  is  one  of  the  mysteries  we  have  not  been  able 
to  unravel.  It  came  personally  from  G.  Sire  Wildey,  but  he  could 
never  be  induced  to  give  the  particulars.  It  was  submitted  in 
fragments  to  his  associates,  until  all  the  parts  were  furnished. 
He  never  claimed  to  be  the  author,  and  no  one  believed  in  his 
ability  to  produce  it.  But  as  he  alone  stood  for  it,  for  conveni- 
ence it  was  assumed  that  it  was  his  work.  In  this  anonymous  con- 
dition it  found  its  way  into  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  on 
the  30th  day  of  March,  1825.  On  its  presentation  the  following 
action  was  had  :  "  Ordered,  That  the  G.  Lodges  be  informed  that 
there  is  a  color  on  their  charters  for  a  degree  which  they  have  not 
received,  and  that  it  will  be  forwarded  as  soon  as  possible." 
"  Resolved,  that  it  is  the  opinion  of  this  G.  Lodge  that  the  benefit 
arising  from  the  said  fifth  degree,  shall  be  forwarded  to  this  body, 
to  defray  the  expenses  of  the  same,  and  likewise  that  of  the  rep- 
resentatives of  each  State."  It  would  seem  that  the  whole  matter 
had  been  previously  matured — the  degree,  its  order,  and  its  use 
for  fiscal  purposes.  It  was  in  this  manner  adopted,  and  sent  to 
the  G.  Lodges  under  the  instructions  agreed  upon. 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.         301 

It  reached  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  April  14th,  1825, 
when  it  was  postponed  to  await  "  more  information  on  the 
subject."  It  was  again  considered  June  3,  1825,  on  the  occasion 
of  a  visit  from  G.  M.  Wildey ;  his  presence  gave  rise  to  the  fol- 
lowing :  "  Resolved,  that  the  G.  Master  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
United  States  be  requested  to  give  the  Mazarine  Blue  Degree  to 
such  brothers  as  may  apply  to  him  for  it,  before  leaving  the  city ; 
upon  his  being  satisfied  that  they  are  entitled  to  receive  it." 
"  Resolved,  that  the  G.  Lodge  will  pay  her  proportion  of  the 
expense  necessary  to  complete  the  said  degree  in  the  United 
States." 

A  copy  of  a  letter,  of  the  date  of  May  8,  1825,  from  New 
York,  addressed  to  the  G.  Officers  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United 
States,  says  for  that  jurisdiction  that  the  fifth  degree  was  very 
much  approved.  At  an  adjourned  meeting  of  its  G.  Lodge,  held 
June  6,  1825,  at  which  G.  M.  Wildey  was  present,  the  fol- 
lowing was  adopted  :  "  Resolved,  that  the  fifth  degree  be,  and 
the  same  is  hereby,  received  and  accepted  as  part  of  the  work  of 
the  Order."  "  Resolved,  that  all  moneys  received  for  conferring 
the  fifth  degree  shall  be  paid  over  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United 
States,  for  the  purpose  of  defraying  the  expenses  of  the  represen- 
tatives that  may  be  sent  to  that  body."  In  New  York  as  in  Phila- 
delphia, several  brothers  received  the  honors  of  the  Purple 
Degree  from  G.  M.  Wildey.  The  records  of  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Massachusetts  are  not  accessible ;  but  G.  M.  Wildey  was  at  its 
session  in  June  1825.  It  is  presumed  that  body  readily  assented 
to  the  new  degree,  and  received  it  from  his  hands.  It  had  been 
already  submitted  15th  April,  1825,  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland, 
and  it  was  at  once  fully  approved  by  that  body.  In  due  time, 
after  the  payment  of  the  prescribed  fee,  a  number  of  its  P.  Grands 
also  received  the  new  instruction. 

And  thus  was  the  fifth  degree,  successively  known  as  the 
Past  Grand's  Degree,  the  Mazarine  Blue  Degree,  the  Purple 
Degree,  and  the  Royal  Purple  Degree,  established  as  a  portion 
of  the  work  of  the  Order. 

THE   GRAND   LODGE   DEGREE. 

The  Go  Lodge  Degree  is  also  American ;  growing  naturally 
out  of  the  creation  of  State  G.  Lodges.  It  began  with  their  or- 
ganization. It  has  no  lecture,  but  is  left  to  the  moral  to  be  found 


302  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

in  its  peculiar  password.  It  has  never  been  changed  since  its  in- 
troduction. When  G.  Sire  Wildey  was  in  England  in  June,  1826,, 
he  submitted  to  the  authorities  of  the  Manchester  Unity  the 
American  degrees.  They  were  the  degrees  of  the  Covenant  and 
Remembrance,  the  Purple  or  Past  Grand's,  and  the  G.  Lodge  de- 
gree. The  G.  Committee  in  special  session  took  charge  of  them  for 
submission  to  the  next  session  of  the  Annual  Movable  Commit- 
tee. The  committee  met  at  Nottingham,  June  4,  1827,  and 
had  these  proceedings :  "  On  a  report  of  a  sub-committee,  the 
degrees  brought  by  G.  Sire  Wildey  from  America,  were  disposed 
of  as  follows:  Reso-lved,  that  the  Covenant,  Remembrance,  and 
the  degree  for  Past  Grands  be  adopted ;  and  that  all  degrees  be 
printed  in  a  size  corresponding  with  the  American  Lecture  book, 
except  the  P.  Grand's  degree,  wThich  shall  be  printed  pocket-book 
size,  for  the  use  of  P.  G.'s;  the  color  for  the  Remembrance 
lecture  to  be  green,  the  Past  Grand's  purple." 

No  reference  was  had  to  the  G.  Lodge  Degree ;  it  could  have 
been  but  of  little  use  in  their  system ;  as  their  form  of  govern- 
ment did  not  need  it,  no  notice  wras  taken  of  its  offer.  It  was 
passed  by  them  informally,  as  an  unobjectionable  mode  of  its  rejec- 
tion. The  Purple  degree  lecture  after  some  delay  was  printed, 
and  in  December,  1827,  was  ready  for  delivery  in  the  jurisdiction 
of  the  A.  M.  C.  It  wTas  only  conferred  upon  P.  Grands  of  ap- 
proved standing  as  a  special  mark  of  esteem  and  confidence. 

THE    PATRIARCHAL    DEGREE. 

About  the  time  the  brothers  in  Baltimore  were  constructing 
the  Purple  degree,  P.  D.  G.  M.  Smith,  of  the  Duke  of  Norfolk 
Lodge  (now  No.  55)  Wigan,  was  employed  in  preparing  another 
degree,  which  has  been  of  great  service  as  an  appropriate  introduc- 
tion to  the  ceremonial  of  the  Royal  Purple  degree.  Bro.  Smith 
submitted  his  work  to  the  officers  at  Manchester  in  the  early  part  of 
1825,  in  advance  of  the  regular  meeting  of  the  A.  M.  C.  The  ses- 
sion of  that  body  was  held  at  Huddersfield,  May  23,  1825,  when 
the  production  was  referred  to  a  committee  of  eight.  This  com- 
mittee having  reported  favorably,  the  degree  was  adopted  as  the 
Patriarchal;  it  was  also  resolved  that  "the  dipthipiiphing  badge 
for  the  Patriarchal  Order  be  Gold"  Thanks  were  also  bestowed 
on  P.  G.  Smith  for  "  his  exertions  in  bringing  forward  the  newly 
adopted  degree."  An  order  to  print  it  was  passed,  and  it  was  at 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH,         303 

once  disseminated  through  the  Unity.  The  original  Patriarchal 
degree  of  P.  G.  Smith  was  not  without  merit,  being  mainly  de- 
signed to  test  the  proficiency  of  its  candidates  in  the  previous 
degrees. 

In  the  summer  of  1825  P.  G.  McCormick,  of  Maryland,  was 
a  visitor  in  England.  The  officers  at  Manchester  at  once  availed 
themselves  of  his  presence.  He  was  entrusted  with  the  new 
degree  and  its  lecture,  to  be  delivered  on  his  return,  in  person,  to 
G.  M.  Wildey  and  D.  G.  M.  Welch.  On  his  return,  at  the 
session  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  held  September 
25th,  1825,  he  presented  his  credentials  to  that  body,  and  an- 
nounced that  he  had  duly  presented  the  degree.  Whereupon 
the  Patriarchal  degree  was  conferred  upon  all  the  G.  Officers 
and  members  of  the  G.  Lodge  who  were  present.  On  October 
18th,  1825,  it  was  announced  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland,  and 
was  conferred  on  a  number  of  its  P.  Grands.  It  does  not  appear 
to  have  reached  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  until  May  12th, 
1826.  No  doubt  the  G.  Lodges  of  Massachusetts  and  New 
York  received  the  information  about  the  same  period. 

Thus  three  new  degrees  of  kindred  character,  but  of  some- 
what different  tendency  from  ordinary  lodge  work,  were  intro- 
duced. Their  candidates  were  limited  to  the  small  band  which 
composed  the  membership  of  a  G.  Lodge.  The  original  design 
was  to  help  consume  the  time  of  the  session  and  add  to  its 
attractions ;  thus  they  filled  up  the  intervals  between  the 
ordinary  business  and  helped  to  sustain  a  feeble  treasury. 

AN    ENCAMPMENT   LODGE. 

Such  was  the  inside  view  of  the  work  in  the  year  1827.  But 
in  that  year  it  had  an  extension.  The  G.  Lodge  of  the  United 
States  was  already  a  successful  experiment.  It  had  four  G. 
Lodges  to  support  its  dignity,  embracing  four  of  the  States  of 
the  Union.  Maryland  had  four  working  subordinates,  one  of 
them  operating  in  German  ;  Pennsylvania  was  a  great  success, 
and  the  other  Grand  Lodges  were  promising.  The  leaders  felt 
that  more  extended  views  regarding  the  secret  work  would  b<* 
correspondingly  beneficial.  It  began  in  a  consultation  amon^ 
eight  of  the  most  active  and  useful  members  in  Maryland. 
After  numerous  suggestions,  they  met  on  May  6th,  1827,  and 
took  final  action ;  it  was  then  determined  to  organize  a  new 


•30-i  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

and  select  branch  of  the  Order  open  to  Scarlet  degree  members 
only.  For  this  purpose  they  applied  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Mary- 
land for  a  warrant  to  establish  an  "  Encampment  Lodge,"  in 
which  the  three  new  degrees  could  be  conferred  on  brothers  of 
the  Scarlet  degree.  It  was  at  the  meeting  held  May  15,  1827, 
that  the  charter  was  granted.  The  application  for  the  first  time 
.gave  to  the  new  work  the  distinctive  appellation  of  "  Encamp- 
ment degrees."  It  will  be  noticed  that  this  was  an  extension  of 
these  degrees.  Not  only  wTas  the  G.  Lodge  relieved  from  ritual- 
istic work ;  the  degrees  were  diffused  among  the  Order :  the 
Past  Grands  parted  with  an  exclusive  right  and  gave  it  to  the 
brotherhood. 

The  subject  of  these  degrees  had  already  received  the  atten- 
tion of  the  G.  Lodge.  They  were  quite  barren  and  naked,  and 
had  much  need  for  dress  and  decoration.  At  the  November  session 
of  1826  a  crozier  was  devised  as  insignia  for  the  Patriarchal 
degree,  and  it  was  then  informally  determined  that  the  system 
of  procedure  for  all  of  them  needed  reformation.  It  was  plain 
that  much  was  necessary  for  their  proper  exemplification ;  a  full 
set  of  emblems  and  a  set  of  Appropriate  regalia  were  indis- 
pensable to  give  effect  to  their  lectures  and  charges.  Special 
implements  and  fittings  were  required,  and  a  separate  place  and 
organization  for  their  administration.  So  that  when  the  move- 
ment was  made,  the  members  were  ready  to  give  it  their  approval. 
The  petition  was  signed  by  Thomas  Wildey,  John  Boyd,  Thomas 
Scotchburn,  John  Roach,  Ezekiel  Wilson,  John  F.  Exe,  Thomas 
Charters  and  Richard  Marley.  It  was  on  the  same  night  re- 
ferred, reported  upon,  and  the  petition  granted ;  the  charter  fee 
was  forty  dollars,  and  ten  per  cent,  of  its  receipts  was  to 
be  paid  to  the  G.  Lodge.  The  G.  Lodge  relinquished  the  right 
to  confer  the  degrees  so  long  as  they  should  be  properly  given  by 
the  new  body,  and  Encampment  Lodge,  No.  1,  was  alone  author- 
ized to  impart  them  to  the  Scarlet  members.  There  was  great 
enthusiasm  and  the  usual  energy  for  working  the  new  machinery ; 
an  encampment  room  was  fitted  up,  emblems,  implements  and 
suitable  regalia  were  procured,  and  the  " Encampment"  was 
duly  instituted  in  the  G.  Lodge  Hall  on  the  6th  of  July,  1827. 
The  first  officers  installed  were :  John  Boyd,  C.  P.;  Thomas 
Wildey,  H.  P.;  Thomas  Scotchburn,  S.  W.;  Richard  Marley, 
Scribe ;  John  J.  Roach,  J.  W.,  and  Ezekiel  Wilson,  Guardian. 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.         305 

The  other  members  at  the  organization  were  John  Welch,  Wil- 
liam Williams,  Henry  Harris,  Charles  Brice,  Samuel  Bickley, 
George  Freeburger,  David  Eamsey,  Abraham  Sanders,  and 
brothers  Santmyer,  Pitts,  Clements  and  Richardson. 

These  eighteen,  at  a  preliminary  meeting  on  the  27th  of  May, 
had  fixed  the  price  for  the  degrees ;  for  the  first  or  Patriarchal 
three  dollars,  for  the  second  or  Golden  Rule  four  dollars,  and 
for  the  third  or  Purple  degree  five  dollars.  No  charge,  of 
course,  for  those  who  had  already  received  them.  By  this  ar- 
rangement they  were  able  to  begin  with  something  in  the 
treasury.  The  precise  period  of  this  arrangement  of  the  degrees 
is  not  known  ;  the  order  was  completely  inverted,  the  last  degree 
prepared  being  the  first  conferred.  One  or  more  of  the  number 
prepared  the  initiatory  ceremonial,  but  no  statement  of  the  facts 
has  ever  been  made.  Yery  soon  afterwards  the  degree,  until 
then  known  as  the  Purple,  was  designated  the  Royal  Purple, 
which  name  it  still  retains.  We  have  stated  the  tradition  on 
this  subject,  but  have  nothing  of  our  own  to  offer.  But  no  one 
should  mistake  the  old  for  the  new  work.  We  cannot  allege 
any  identity  between  the  first  Patriarchal  degrees  and  the 
present  WORK.  They  did  not  seem  to  have  any  distinctive 
degree  character :  substance  wras  lacking  to  enable  them  to  stand 
alone ;  hence  when  conferred  in  the  G.  Lodge  they  wrere  treated 
as  quasi  side  degrees. 

The  Golden  Rule  degree,  as  before  stated,  was  introduced  as 
the  fourth  degree,  February  22d,  1821.  It  was  a  barren  sketch 
without  drapery.  It  is  supposed  to  have  taught  the  golden  rule 
of  Christianity,  with  simply  a  sign  and  password.  It  had  no 
lecture.  But  its  point  and  brevity  made  it  popular;  for,  of  the 
forty-five  Past  Grands  admitted  to  the  G.  Lodge  in  the  first  six 
years,  forty-one  took  the  degree.  Before  being  transferred  to 
the  Encampments  it  became  a  little  tangible.  Article  7  of  Con- 
stitution of  1823  provided  that  it  should  be  read  every  quarter 
in  the  G.  Lodge,  and  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland  in  April,  1826, 
"  Resolved,  that  the  Fourth  (G.  R.)  Degree  be  ordered  to  be 
read."  Of  course  there  was  something  to  read,  but  it  was 
barely  "  something,"  unless  aided  by  oral  teaching. 

ENCAMPMENT   OF    PATRIARCHS. 

After  eighteen  months'  work  under  the  charter  it  proved  un- 
satisfactory, and  another  was  sought  for  in  its  stead.  At  the 

9,0 


306  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

session  of  January  16th,  1829,  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland  adopted 
the  following :  "  Resolved,  that  Encampment  Lodge,  No.  1,  be 
allowed  a  charter  in  lieu  of  the  one  they  have,  that  being  defec- 
tive in  orthography."  The  original  paper  is  not  in  existence, 
and  cannot  be  consulted.  The  new  charter  may  be  better,  but  it 
is  not  a  model  of  careful  composition.  The  style  was  entirely 
changed;  it  was  no  longer  an  Encampment  Lodge,  but  an  "En- 
campment of  Patriarchs."  The  new  warrant  has  the  original 
date  of  the  old  one,  and  the  names  of  six  of  the  original  charter 
members.  Other  changes  as  to  names  occurred,  but  they  were 
not  important.  For  some  reason  a  sort  of  reform  of  the  same 
character  was  extended  to  the  lodges.  At  the  annual  session  of 
the  G.  Lodge  of  1830  the  following  was  adopted :  "  Resolved, 
that  the  charters  of  the  subordinate  lodges  be  taken  from  their 
frames  and  others  placed  in,  with  the  original  dates  and  officers 
who  were  the  original  signers  of  said  charters,  with  the  exception 
of  those  who  may  have  been  expelled  since  that  period."  The 
last  clause  seems  to  explain  the  whole  matter,  for  a  natural 
aversion  must  have  been  felt  to  keeping  the  names  of  expelled 
members  upon  such  sacred  instruments.  William  Williams,  an 
original  encampment  charter  member,  was  one  of  the  expelled. 
The  following  is  the  substituted  charter : 

CHARTER  OF  THE  FIRST  ENCAMPMENT  OF  PATRIARCHS. 

ORDER  OF  INDEPENDENT  ODD  FELLOWS. 
To  all  whom  it  may  concern :  Know  ye  that  an  application 
being  made  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  by  the  following 
Past  Grands,  viz :  Thomas  Wildey,  John  Roach,  Senr.,  John 
Boyd,  Thomas  Charters,  Thomas  Scotch  burn  and  Richard  Marley ; 
being  all  members  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  and 
residing  within  the  State  of  Maryland,  to  establish  an  Encamp- 
ment of  Patriarchs.  We,  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland,  by  the 
authority  of  a  charter  granted  us  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United  States  of  America,  held  in  the  city  of  Baltimore,  hereby 
grant  this  charter,  and  we,  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of 
Maryland,  do  empower  the  aforesaid  Encampment  of  Patriarchs 
to  grant  dispensations  for  opening  an  Encampment  to  all  faithful 
Odd  Fellows  throughout  the  globe ;  and  we,  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  Maryland,  do  furthermore  cede  to  the  said  Encampment  of 
Patriarchs  the  exclusive  power  of  conferring  the  degrees  apper- 
taining to  the  Encampment  of  Patriarchs,  viz :  The  Patriarchal 
Degree,  the  Golden  Rule  Degree,  and  the  Royal  Purple  Degree. 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.         307 

And  we,  the  Grand  Lodge,  also  privilege  them  to  make  such 
laws  as  they  may  think  expedient  for  their  good  government : 
Provided,  at  all  times,  such  laws  be  not  at  variance  with  the 
constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  nor 
that  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  Maryland.  But 
should  the  said  Encampment  infringe  or  violate  the  consti- 
tution of  the  Grand  Lodges,  either  of  the  State  of  Maryland, 
or  of  the  United  States,  or  act  in  any  manner  derogatory 
to  the  principles  of  Odd  Fellowship,  the  Grand  Lodge  do  retain 
the  power  of  suspending  this  charter ;  but  in  case  of  a  faithful 
observance  of  the  above  stipulation,  we  do  further  bind  ourselves 
to  repair  all  accidental  damage  or  destruction  of  this  charter. 
In  witness  whereof,  wre  have  subscribed  our  names  and  affixed 
the  seal  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  Maryland,  together 
with  the  colors,  hereby  transmitted  to  the  said  Encampment  of 
Patriarchs,  this  the  thirtieth  day  of  May,  A.  D.  1827. 

THOMAS  SCOTCHBURN,  G.  M. 
Black.  CHARLES  BRICE,  D.  G.  M. 

[SEAL]      Gold.  RICHARD  MAULEY,  G.  W. 

Purple.  EZEKIEL  WILSON,  G.  Sec. 

JOHN  ROACH,  G.  G. 

DAVID  RAMSEY,  G.  C. 

But  six  grantees  appear  in  the  body  of  this  instrument  instead 
of  the  original  number.  The  name  of  P.  G.  Wilson,  who  sub- 
scribed the  original  as  G.  Secretary,  is  also  omitted.  But  the 
hasty  action  of  the  body  was  particularly  manifested  in  the  name 
given  to  the  new  organization.  An  Encampment  of  Patriarchs 
is  a  generic  name,  and  it  was  authorized  to  institute  others  of  the 
same  class.  But  it  should  have  been  more  specific.  To  be  sure, 
the  G.  Lodge  twice  designates  it  in  its  minutes  as  Encampment, 
No.  1,  but  that  was  no  more  a  distinctive  name  than  Lodge,  No.  1. 
In  fact  it  was  out  of  the  system — a  mere  fragment,  afterwards  to 
be  put  in  a  more  tangible  form.  However,  it  existed  until  a  G. 
Encampment  took  its  place  in  1832,  when  a  regular  warrant  was 
issued  to  it  as  Jerusalem  Encampment,  JSTo.  1.  It  was  simply  an 
experiment,  having  no  precedent  in  England,  and  never  thought  of 
in  America  until  1827.  But  a  short  trial  was  sufficient  to  show 
its  value ;  one  year's  experience  induced  its  projectors  to  perse- 
vere until  it  became  a  permanent  feature  of  the  Order.  G.  Sire 
Wildey  led  here  as  elsewhere,  and  invited  the  other  G.  Lodges 
to  participate. 


BOS  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

ENCAMPMENTS    IN    PENNSYLVANIA. 

The  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  was  the  first  to  respond.  The 
invitation  reached  them  011  June  9,  1828 ;  on  September  29  of 
that  year  it  ripened  into  action.  At  that  time  a  petition  was 
offered  to  that  body  from  ten  members  of  the  Patriarchal  Degree, 
praying  for  a  warrant  to  "  form  an  Encampment  of  Patriarchs." 
The  prayer  was  granted,  a  draft  reported  27th  October,  and  on 
December  20,  1828,  the  warrant  and  charge  books  WT ere  formally 
delivered  to  the  petitioners.  But  it  seems  that  no  organization 
then  took  place.  On  June  16,  1829,  G.  Sire  Wildey  being 
present,  a  motion  prevailed  to  reconsider  the  whole  matter.  The 
petition  was  recommitted,  and  a  report  made  as  follows : 

The  committee  appointed  to  consider  the  propriety  of  forming 
the  petitioners  for  an.  Encampment  of  Patriarchs  into  a  G.  Encamp- 
ment, respectfully  report  that  they  have  given  the  business  that 
serious  consideration  its  importance  merits,  and  are  convinced 
the  interests  of  the  Order  will  be  promoted  by  forming  said  G. 
Encampment:  subject  to  the  following  resolutions,  which  your 
committee  recommend  to  your  consideration : 

Resolved,  That  the  original  jurisdiction  and  government  over 
all  Odd  Fellowship  in  Pennsylvania,  is  of  right  and  necessity 
vested  in  this  G.  Lodge. 

Resolved,  That  this  G.  Lodge  will  grant  a  warrant  for  the 
opening  of  a  G.  Encampment ;  and  that  the  recommendation  of 
said  G.  Encampment  shall  be  necessary,  at  all  times,  to  all  peti- 
tions that  shall  be  oifered  to  this  G.  Lodge  for  warrants  for 
subordinate  Encampments  that  hereafter  may  be  applied  for,  by 
Odd  Eellows,  properly  qualified  to  receive  the  same. 

Resolved,  That  ten  per  cent,  of  all  moneys  received  by  the 
G.  and  Subordinate  Encampments  shall  be  paid  to  the  G. 
Lodge  quarterly ;  and  that  they  will  conform  to  such  laws  as 
shall  be  hereafter  dictated  by  this  G.  Lodge. 

Resolved,  That  the  warrant  of  each  Encampment  shall 
embrace  the  principles  and  requisitions  in  this  report. 

The  preamble  and  resolutions  were  concurred  in,  and  the 
plan  at  length  took  practical  form  in  that  State. 

The  whole  action  in  Pennsylvania  was  characterized  by 
prudence  and  sagacity.  The  project  was  new  and  the  form  of 
its  execution  somewhat  revolutionary.  A  Grand  Lodge  was  su- 
preme in  its  State — the  sole  fountain  of  local  authority.  All  Odd 
Fellows  in  the  State  of  whatever  degree  were  subject  to  the  one 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.         309 

master.  But  here  was  the  anomaly  of  a  class  of  members  seeking 
to  break  away  from  the  governing  power  and  to  set  up  for  them- 
selves. Certainly  there  wras  wisdom  also  in  the  desire  for  a 
separation.  Those  having  the  superior  degrees  outranked  all  the 
rest,  and  in  that  relation  had  nothing  in  common  with  them.  A 
separate  association  was  necessary  where  equals  in  rank  only 
could  legislate  on  those  degrees.  It  was  not  proper  that  mem- 
bers should  be  called  upon  to  determine  questions  they  did  not 
comprehend.  The  resolutions  applied  the  remedy,  and  at  the 
same  time  secured  the  dignity  and  authority  of  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Pennsylvania.  The  G.  Encampment  provided  for  was  organized 
on  June  19th,  1829,  and  began  to  give  the  degrees  until  a  sub- 
ordinate Encampment  was  instituted.  A  petition  for  that  pur- 
pose was  granted  on  the  13th  of  August,  1829,  and  on  the  16th 
the  lirst  subordinate  opened ;  success  was  assured  and  thus  the 
new  branch  of  the  Order  was  firmly  established  in  Pennsylvania. 
This  Encampment  was  distinguished  simply  as  No.  1,  but  after- 
wards assumed  the  style  of  Philadelphia  Encampment,  No.  1.  The 
journal  of  the  G.  Encampment  does  not  give  it  the  title  until 
April,  1838 ;  in  the  meantime  four  other  subordinates  had  been 
formed  with  appropriate  names.  The  report  of  the  proceeding 
says,  "  Your  committee  also  opened  an  Encampment  of  Patri- 
archs, which  organization  was  received  with  the  greatest  appro- 
bation.1' The  G.  Encampment  was  opened  by  G.  Sire  Wildey, 
who  installed  the  G.  Officers  in  due  form.  The  report  referred 
to  was  that  of  the  movable  committee  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
United  States,  of  which  G.  Sire  Wildey  was  chairman. 

NEW    YORK    AND    MASSACHUSETTS. 

On  visiting  the  G.  Lodge  of  New  York,  the  committee  found 
its  members  fully  alive  to  the  new  departure.  They  had  taken 
with  them  an  engrossed  warrant  for  an  Encampment,  with  blanks 
for  names,  date  and  signatures ;  the  form  being  modeled  after 
that  granted  the  preceding  January  in  Maryland.  It  differed  in 
confining  it^  jurisdiction  in  granting  warrants  to  the  State  of 
New  York,  instead  of  giving  the  globe  for  its  theatre.  This  doc- 
ument is  preserved  among  the  archives  of  that  State.  No  history 
of  the  new  movement  in  Massachusetts  is  accessible,  but  the 
report  of  the  committee  shows  that  they  were  at  Boston ;  here 


310  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

they  met  some  delay,  but  before  leaving  they  formally  opened  an 
Encampment  in  that  city. 

WILDE Y    TOOK    THE    RESPONSIBILITY. 

This  was  all  done  without  the  authority  of  the  supreme 
body.  The  excessive  energy  of  Wildey  could  not  bear  inaction  ; 
his  plan  was  to  see  and  to  perform.  He  had  so  long  been  master, 
that  he  never  gave  thought  to  anything  but  the  work  in  hand. 
The  advantages  of  a  separation  of  the  work,  the  propriety  of 
offering  new  inducements  to  Scarlet  brothers,  were  manifest. 
He  did  not  hesitate,  and  his  old  cohort  moved  in  line  at  his  call. 
Eut  it  was  not  the  less  revolutionary.  To  be  sure,  it  succeeded, 
and  the  end  in  this  case  seemed  to  justify  the  means.  The  G. 
Lodge  of  Maryland  acted  with  great  spirit  and  put  the  plan 
properly  on  foot.  These  degrees  were  no  longer  toys,  but  tools ; 
the  practice  that  confined  them  to  P.  Grands  was  abolished,  and 
a  great  engine  for  good  set  in  motion.  The  charters  of  1827 
were  simply  nullities ;  irregularity  bred  confusion,  and  the  ex- 
ample was  of  a  nature  to  cause  alarm.  But  the  novelty  gradu- 
ally merged  into  the  system,  and  at  length  the  new  movement 
became  the  pride  of  the  Order. 

ACKNOWLEDGED   BY   THE   G.    L.    OF    TJ.    STATES. 

The  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  accepted  the  situation, 
and  indirectly  gave  aid  and  comfort.  It  went  further,  and 
declared  the  Royal  Purple  degree  a  necessary  qualification  for 
Grand  Representatives,  contenting  itself  with  the  assertion  that 
"  it  was  the  only  legitimate  depository  for  granting  charters  to 
open  lodges  and  Encampments  in  foreign  States,  or  in  the  Dis- 
tricts or  Territories  in  America  ";  leaving  it  to  be  inferred  that 
what  had  already  been  done  was  legal. 

THE   ENCAMPMENT   BRANCH. 

But  this  irregular  proceeding  had  a  short  career.  Steps  were 
taken  to  bring  this  comet-like  emanation  into  the  regular  system, 
and  to  make  it  directly  subject  to  the  central  authority.  At  the 
same  session  of  1831  a  charter  was  granted  to  James  L.  Ridgely, 
Joseph  Bannister,  John  Boyd,  Augustus  Mathiot,  Samuel  Lucas 
and  Thomas  Scotchburn  to  open  a  G.  Encampment  in  Maryland. 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.         311 

But  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland  was  already  exercising  sole  juris- 
diction in  the  same  field.  That  body  gracefully  yielded  at  once 
to  the  demand  of  its  superior,  and  on  the  17th  of  January,  1832, 
passed  the  following:  "Resolved,  that  for  the  purpose  of  vesting 
undisputed  and  absolute  jurisdiction  to  charter  subordinate  En- 
campments, and  all  rights  necessary  thereto,  in  the  G.  Encamp- 
ment, this  G.  Lodge  doth  hereby  relinquish  to  said  G.  Encamp- 
ment and  vest  therein  all  the  rights,  if  any,  the  said  G.  Lodge 
now  possesses  over  Encampments  in  this  State."  The  G.  En- 
campment had  already  been  instituted  on  the  31st  of  December, 
1831,  and  set  up  its  tent  in  the  city  of  Baltimore.  It.  will  be  at 
once  seen  that  the  Patriarchal  branch  as  to  its  mode  of  govern- 
ment was  formed  upon  the  model  of  the  State  G.  Lodges.  By 
this  adjustment  it  assumed  a  position  of  entire  State  indepen- 
dence as  an  integral  part  of  the  Order,  was  admitted  to  repre- 
sentation in  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  and  soon 
rose  by  its  sublime  degrees  and  its  select  membership  to  the 
apex  of  the  system,  becoming  the  superior  grade  in  the  Order. 

MARYLAND    FOLLOWED    BY    THE    OTHER    STATES. 

But  all  this  was  the  work  of  time.  The  same  irregularity  had 
occurred  in  Pennsylvania ;  the  example  of  Maryland  was  fol- 
lowed, and  notwithstanding  the  manifest  absurdity  of  the  act, 
that  G.  Lodge  delegated  its  sovereignty  to  a  G.  Encampment, 
which  granted  charters  under  its  authority  up  to  1840,  the 
legislation  of  the  G.  Lodge  on  the  subject  being  disregarded. 
In  the  interval  (1833)  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  so 
amended  its  constitution  as  to  require  the  recognition  of  its 
jurisdiction  over  the  Patriarchal  branch,  with  "  the  exclusive 
right  to  authorize  Encampments  in  States  or  Districts  where  no 
G.  Encampments  existed,"  and  also  making  the  R.  P.  degree  a 
qualification  for  the  office  of  Grand  Sire.  The  conflict  of  juris- 
diction in  the  meantime  continued  not  only  in  the  States  we 
have  named,  but  also  in  New  York.  The  following  statement, 
taken  from  the  columns  of  that  late  able  publication,  "  The 
Heart  and  Hand,"  gives  a  truthful  version  of  the  difficulty  and 
of  its  final  adjustment : 

In  1834  Patriarch  Frederick  Liese  and  others  petitioned  the 
G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  for  a  charter  to  open  an  Encamp- 


312  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

ment  in  the  city  of  New  York,  to  be  hailed  as  Mt.  Hebron  En- 
campment. The  committee  reported  that  the  G.  Lodge  had  no 
authority  to  grant  the  charter,  inasmuch  as  the  charter  granted 
to  the  G.  Lodge  of  New  York  gave  it  the  power  to  confer  En- 
campment Degrees;  that  the  G.  Lodge  of  New  York,  in  1829, 
granted  a  charter  to  open  an  Encampment  in  Albany,  which 
„  charter  invested  in  said  Encampment  the  exclusive  power  to- 
grant  charters  for  Encampments  in  the  State  of  New  York.  The 
petitioners,  perceiving  the  fallacy  of  obtaining  a  charter  from  a 
body  of  co-ordinate  operation,  were  desirous  of  receiving  one  from 
an  authority  competent  to  guide  as  well  as  create.  Their  appli- 
cation being  refused,  they  subsequently  applied  to  the  Encamp- 
ment at  Albany  and  received  a  dispensation.  The  members  of 
the  parent  Encampment  having  seceded  from  the  authority  of 
the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  the  powers  relative  to  En- 
campments in  the  State  of  New  York  reverted  again  to  the 
supreme  G.  Lodge,  by  the  recall  of  the  original  charter  of  the 
G.  Lodge  of  that  State  in  1837,  and  a  new  charter  was  granted 
to  Mt.  Hebron  Encampment,  No.  2,  of  New  York,  in  lieu  of  the 
dispensation  under  which  it  had  existed.  In  August,  1839,  the 
G.  Encampment  of  the  State  of  New  York  was  instituted  in  the 
city  of  New  York,  assuming  jurisdiction  of  all  subordinates  in 
the  State. 

In  1840  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  adopted  a  resolution 
to  relinquish  all  jurisdiction  over  Encampments  in  that  State  to 
the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  and  an  informal  application 
was  made  to  the  G.  Sire  to  change  the  relations  of  the  G.  En- 
campment from  the  State  G.  Lodge  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United 
States,  as  tendered  in  the  resolution.  It  was  apparent  to  the  G. 
Sire  that  there  were  no  legal  means  of  attaining  so  important  an 
object,  during  the  recess,  as  becoming  possessed  of  jurisdiction 
over  the  Encampments  of  any  State.  At  the  annual  session  in 
1841  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  accepted  the  surrender 
of  jurisdiction  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  recognized  the 
existence  of  the  G.  Encampment,  recalled  the  charter  under 
which  it  was  constituted,  granted  a  new  one  in  lieu  thereof,  and 
confirmed  the  charters  of  all  existing  subordinates  throughout  the 
State. 

This  ended  the  authority  of  State  G.  Lodges  over  the  Patri- 
archal Order,  and  rid  the  Order  of  the  anomaly  heretofore  exist- 
ing, of  the  independence  of  the  Encampments  of  the  control  of 
the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  At  the  period  when  Encamp- 
ments were  organized  under  the  several  G.  Lodges,  it  was  deemed 
advisable  to  confer  on  them  powers  similar  to  those  formerly  con- 
ceded, under  like  circumstances,  to  Lodges — that  is,  to  permit 
the  senior  body  to  exercise  the  limited  authority  of  establishing 
co-ordinates.  All  the  charters  issued  for  the  first  Encampments 
in  Maryland,  Pennsylvania,  New  York  and  Massachusetts,  being 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.         313 

alike  in  tenor,  recognized  the  same  incongruity.  The  impro- 
priety of  such  assumption,  and  the  well-being  and  perpetuity  of 
this  branch  of  the  Order,  led  to  the  organization  of  G.  Encamp- 
ments, properly  constituted  to  exercise  superintending  authority 
as  well  as  that  of  giving  existence — thus  relieving  the  Encamp- 
ments in  those  States  from  all  embarrassment  incident  to  an  un- 
digested organization. 

Since  passing  that  ordeal,  in  which  it  stood  alone  and  took 
deep  root  in  the  hearts  of  the  membership,  it  has  never  retro- 
graded, but  by  its  own  prestige  and  the  favor  of  the  G.  Lodge  of 
the  United  States,  is  now  assured  of  permanent  life  and  pros- 
perity. 

UNIFORMED    PATRIARCHS. 

Whatever  may  be  said  of  the  Encampment  Branch  by  those 
who  do  not  seem  to  appreciate  its  value,  everything  points  to  its 
popularity  and  perpetuity.  No  better  indication  of  its  vitality 
can  be  found  than  in  the  favorable  legislation  of  the  G.  L.  IT.  S. 
Of  this  the  most  important  was  that  which  gave  to  Patriarchs  a 
street  uniform  in  lieu  of  the  ordinary  regalia.  The  movement 
began  in  1870,  when,  at  the  instance  of  Rep.  Perkins,  of  Massa- 
chusetts, it  was  resolved  "  that  subordinate  encampments,  when 
they  appear  in  public,  may  wear  such  uniform  style  of  head- 
dress as  may  be  approved  by  the  G.  Patriarch  of  the  jurisdiction. " 
Under  this  resolution,  chapeaux  were  at  once  adopted  in  certain 
localities,  to  be  worn  in  processions,  as  well  as  swords,  belts,  and 
gauntlets ;  and  the  matter  being  brought  to  the  notice  of  the  G. 
Sire,  he  issued  his  proclamation  forbidding  their  use.  G.  Sire 
Stuart,  though  very  favorable  to  a  street  uniform  for  Patriarchs, 
had  no  alternative.  G.  Sire  Farnsworth,  before  the  passage  of 
this  resolution,  had  decided  "  that  no  regalia  is  legitimate  except 
that  prescribed  by  law — chapeaux,  crooks,  swords  and  belts,  and 
all  military  paraphernalia  not  so  prescribed,  are  accordingly  in- 
admissible." This  decision  was  affirmed  in  the  very  words  in 
which  it  was  made,  and  of  course  was  decisive  of  the  question 
that  a  chapeau  worn  in  procession  was  regalia.  But  G.  Sire 
Stuart's  proclamation,  although  supported  by  a  report  from  a 
standing  committee,  was  amended  by  striking  out  "  chapeaux  " 
as  part  of  the  interdicted  costume.  This  was  the  entering 
wedge,  and  was  done  on  the  motion  of  Rep.  Stokes,  of  Penn- 
sylvania. 


314:  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  friends  of  the  new  movement  were  greatly  encouraged, 
and  came  up  in  fine  spirits  to  the  session  of  1872.  Rep.  Rand, 
of  Massachusetts,  brought  the  subject  before  the  body,  and  was 
appointed  chairman  of  the  committee  to  which  it  was  sent.  The 
committee  reported  as  follows  :  "  Resolved,  that  Encampments  be 
permitted  to  wear  such  style  of  street  uniform,  on  parade,  as 
may  be  sanctioned  by  the  G.  Encampments  of  their  respective 
jurisdictions ;  but  under  no  circumstances  shall  the  funds  of  an 
Encampment  be  appropriated  to  meet  any  expense  incurred 
thereby."  By  this  time  there  had  been  a  revolution  of 
sentiment;  New  England  was  particularly  anxious  for  the 
change,  and  the  conservative  members  were  disposed  to  ac- 
quiesce. The  resolution  was  passed  almost  unanimously  and 
with  great  enthusiasm.  In  1875  the  indulgence  went  further, 
and  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  sustained  G.  Sire  Durham  in  his  decision 
that  a  Patriarch  might  enter  his  Encampment  in  street  uniform, 
provided  he  also  assumed  his  Encampment  regalia. 

By  this  time  the  new  arrangement  was  everywhere  adopted 
with  beneficial  results,  and  had  assumed  such  proportions  as  to 
become  a  matter  of  grave  importance.  A  committee,  of  which 
Rep.  Ticknor,  of  Illinois,  was  chairman,  had  already  reported  the 
style  of  the  uniform  to  be  worn,  and  after  amendments  severally 
proposed  by  Rep.  Porter,  of  California,  and  Rep.  Innis,  of 
Ohio,  it  was  adopted  (Journal  6243).  At  the  session  of 
1877  a  uniform  street  dress  was  provided  for  members  of  subor- 
dinate lodges,  upon  the  report  of  a  committee  of  which  Rep. 
Hickok,  of  Pennsylvania,  was  chairman,  and  a  special  committee 
is  now  preparing  a  street  dress  for  Patriarchs  who  do  not  prefer 
the  uniform.  This  last  committee  consists  of  Reps.  ShafFner, 
Ticknor,  Given,  Kidder  and  Johnson,  who  will  no  doubt  make 
a  satisfactory  report.  Of  course,  the  use  of  any  of  these  costumes 
will  in  any  case  be  optional.  Thus  it  will  be  seen  that  the 
Patriarchal  branch  has  introduced  a  feature,  which  has  conquered 
prejudice  and  given  a  new  impulse  to  the  whole  Order.  A 
system  of  drill  will  no  doubt  be  adopted  which  will  harmonize 
the  action  of  the  drill  associations,  and  we  may  soon  expect  to 
see  the  Patriarchal  branch  one  of  the  best  disciplined  bodies  in 
the  country.  They  are  already  recognized  as  the  leaders  in  our 
public  demonstrations.  This  brilliant  array  of  Odd  Fellows 
have  already  added  to  our  processions  a  dignity  and  beauty 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.         315 

which  cannot  be  surpassed.  This  picked  body  of  noble  men 
who  have  attained  to  the  superior  degrees,  and  overflow  with 
.zeal  and  energy,  now  compose  the  hope  as  well  as  the  body-guard 
of  the  Order. 

ORAND  ENCAMPMENT  DEGREE  AND  HONORARY  DEGREES  OF  C.  P. 

AND  H.  P. 

At  the  session  of  1841  representation  was  accorded,  by  a 
constitutional  provision,  to  G.  Encampments  precisely  upon  the 
same  terms  as  G.  Lodges.  A  committee  was  at  once  appointed 
to  prepare  an  appropriate  degree  for  the  G.  Encampments,  and 
honorary  degrees  for  the  Past  Offices  of  Chief  Patriarch  and  High 
Priest :  it  consisted  of  Reps.  Kennedy,  Yan  Sickell  and  Marley. 
The  committee  reported  the  degrees  on  the  21st  of  September, 
1842,  and  on  the  next  day  they  were  adopted.  They  were  then 
by  resolution  granted  to  the  members  of  the  body,  and  were 
duly  conferred.  In  1844  the  G.  Lodge  abolished  these  honorary 
degrees,  but  as  some  of  the  jurisdictions  continued  to  confer 
them,  the  G.  Lodge  in  1850  directed  G.  Encampments  to  destroy 
the  copies,  which  was  done,  and  the  work  was  suppressed.  The 
Encampments  as  a  separate  branch  have,  notwithstanding  their 
success,  met  with  determined  opposition.  But  in  vain  have  pro- 
positions been  made  again  and  again,  either  to  abolish  their 
degrees  or  to  merge  them  with  the  subordinate  degrees;  the 
G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  has  always  in  the  most  decided 
manner  refused  to  make  any  change  whatever  looking  to  the 
merging  of  the  degrees  or  of  the  two  branches  of  the  Order. 

THE    LECTURES    OR    RITUAL. 

Having  witnessed  the  spread  and  establishment  of  the  new 
"branch  throughout  the  jurisdictions,  we  may  now  the  more 
readily  consider  the  system  on  which  it  was  grafted.  Before  pro- 
ceeding, it  will  be  necessary  to  explain  certain  technical  terms  in 
common  use  in  this  connection.  The  word  LECTURE  is  of  this 
class,  and  had  a  twofold  meaning.  First,  the  addresses,  collo- 
quies, charges  and  special  modes  of  a  degree  were  denominated 
a  lecture.  The  same  name  was  also  given  to  a  meeting  held  for 
the  purpose  of  conferring  or  giving  instructions  in  a  degree.  The 
latter  definition  has  not  met  with  much  approval  in  tin's  country. 


316  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  lecture,  properly  speaking,  is  the  written  work  of  the  degrees. 
Several  of  them  had  no  formal  lecture ;  as  the  G.  Lodge  degree,, 
and  those  of  the  P.  Officers,  these  last  consisting  only  of  un- 
written work.  Recently  the  word  lecture,  with  reference  to  the 
ceremonies,  is  becoming  obsolete.  It  is  now  regarded  in  better 
taste  to  designate  the  work  by  the  word  "  ritual."  This  term 
is  the  latest,  and  will  most  likely  remain  unchanged.  The  degree 
lectures,  as  at  first  prepared,  were  not  elaborate;  the  constant 
alterations  and  additions  were  not  sufficient  to  make  them  lengthy ; 
yet,  although  brief,  there  was  substance  enough  to  allow  of  print- 
ing. Each  edition  seems  to  have  been  modified  more  or  less 
until  1823.  In  that  year  the  charges  and  general  work  were 
"  revised,  altered  and  improved  "  by  the  Manchester  Unity.  This 
edition  took  the  place  of  the  old  lecture-book.  A  copy  preserved 
in  the  archives  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  has  the  im- 
print of  Mark  Wardle,  Manchester,  1824.  The  lecture  of  the 
"White  Degree  was  amended  in  1826 ;  again,  in  1827,  the  whole 
of  the  lectures,  including  the  Covenant  and  Remembrance  degrees, 
were  published  to  conform  to  the  American  Lecture-Book. 

Washington  Lodge,  No.  1,  at  Baltimore,  received  the  lecture- 
books  of  the  three  degrees  by  the  hands  of  P.  G.  Henry  M.  Jack- 
son, in  1819.  The  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.  was  natu- 
rally very  anxious  about  the  secret  work.  At  its  session  held 
22d  August,  1821,  the  minutes  show  an  impatient  expectation  of 
the  arrival  of  "the  new  lecture-books."  The  copies  came  and 
were  distributed.  The  Covenant  and  Remembrance  Degrees 
were  also  furnished  to  the  lodges.  A  copy  of  the  first  edition 
printed  by  American  authority  is  now  in  the  archives  of  the 
Order.  The  three  original  degrees,  with  the  two  intermediates, 
are  in  proper  position,  but  there  is  no  date  to  the  volume.  It  was, 
no  doubt,  printed  under  the  resolution  of  April  13th,  1823,  passed 
by  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.  It  was  an  ambitious 
venture  by  the  indigent  fathers,  to  whom  a  few  dollars  was  a  seri- 
ous burden.  But  they  were  reaching  out  to  embrace  a  larger  area> 
and  had  to  make  a  decent  appearance  before  the  world.  They 
therefore  put  themselves  in  literary  uniform  before  making  the 
conquest  of  the  States.  But  little  alteration  was  made  from  the 
standard  manuscript.  It  was  just  in  time  to  supply  the  three 
G.  Lodges  erected  in  June  of  the  next  year. 


THE   DEGREES    AND    ENCAMPMENT    BRANCH.  317 

FIRST    PRINTED    AMERICAN    LECTURE    BOOK,  CERTAINLY    PRINTED    IN 

1823. 

ITS  TITLE. 

"  Lectures  and  Charges  of  the  Degrees  of  the  Independent 
Order  of  Odd  Fellowship ;  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the 
United  States,  Baltimore." 

TITLE  OF  THE  COVENANT  DEGREE. 

"  The  Degree  of  the  Covenant,  instituted  and  introduced  into 
Odd  Fellowship  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the 
United  States,  Baltimore,  November  25th,  1820,  and  there  noti- 
fied as  ready  by  Grand  Master  WILDEY,  written  by  Deputy 
Grand  Master  JOHN  P.  ENTWISLE." 

This  was  followed  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland  ;  which  in  its 
separate  capacity  had  the  volume  translated  into  the  German 
language. 

On  the  16th  of  January,  1827,  certain  brothers  of  Washington 
Lodge  applied  for  a  charter  for  a  lodge  to  work  in  German.  It 
was  granted  under  the  name  of  William  Tell  Lodge,  No.  4.  This 
rendered  a  translation  of  the  work  a  necessity ;  it  was  begun  at 
once,  and  was  printed  and  issued  in  October  of  the  same  year. 
Pennsylvania,  which  was  always  alive  to  progress,  was  start- 
ing in  the  same  direction.  In  1826  the  revision  of  "  the  charges 
and  workings  "  had  much  of  their  attention.  On  September  25, 
1826,  the  proposed  changes  were  adopted,  and  in  October  were 
ordered  to  be  printed.  At  the  session  of  July  14, 1828,  provision 
was  also  made  for  the  translation  of  the  charge-book  into  the 
German  language.  It  was  forthcoming  on  December  15,  1828, 
and  was  properly  distributed.  The  other  G.  Lodges  made  no 
effort  to  improve  or  print  any  part  of  the  work.  This  was  fol- 
lowed by  a  small  pamphlet  of  the  initiatory  rite,  printed  in  1831, 
now  in  the  archives,  which  somewhat  modifies  the  original ;  the 
degree  lectures  having  been  further  revised  in  1829,  (sec  Journal 
101). 

When  all  authority  vested  in  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United 
States,  no  immediate  steps  were  taken  for  furnishing  copies  of 
the  degree  lectures  and  charge-books.  The  supply  held  by  the 
G.  Lodge  of  Maryland  was  the  sole  reliance.  But  in  1828,  the 
former  body  assumed  control,  and  provided  for  a  revision  of  "  the 


318  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

subordinate  lodge  degrees."  The  alterations  were  merely  nomi- 
nal arid  were  scarcely  worthy  of  the  name.  No  change  followed 
until  the  very  partial  revision  of  1835. 

THE   REVISION    OF    1835. 

On  March  18th,  1833,  a  committee  was  appointed  "to  ascer- 
tain the  means  necessary  to  establish  a  uniform  system  of 
working  in  the  several  State  G.  Lodges  and  their  subordinate 
lodges  throughout  the  United  States";  it  consisted  of  Reps. 
Keyser  of  Md.  and  Hopkins  of  Penn.,  and  Proxy  Eep.  Brannan 
of  the  District  of  Columbia.  This  was  followed  by  the  appoint- 
ment of  a  committee,  of  which  Rep.  Hopkins  of  Penn.  was 
chairman,  on  whom  was  devolved  the  revision  of  the  WORK.  In 
no  other  way  C9uld  there  be  uniformity,  for,  while  the  ancient 
and  new  work  were  in  the  lodges,  it  had  been  so  altered  by 
pruning  and  addition  that  it  existed  in  no  two  jurisdictions  alike. 
The  report  was  made  at  the  session  of  1834  (Journal  173-4), 
postponed  to  the  next  session,  and  after  much  debate  and  many 
amendments  was  adopted.  (Journal,  192-4).  Some  of  the 
alterations  were  important,  but  none  were  so  radical  as  the 
change  of  the  obligation  to  a  parol  of  honor.  It  was  printed 
by  Sands  and  ISTeilson,  Baltimore,  1836,  and  distributed  with 
the  following  appendix :  "  Adopted  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United  States,  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  at 
its  regular  annual  session  held  in  the  city  of  Baltimore  on  the 
9th  day  of  October,  1835."  This,  although  a  decided  improve- 
ment upon  the  former  edition,  did  not  satisfy  the  demand  of 
the  increased  intelligence  of  the  Order.  A  very  general  dis- 
satisfaction prevailed,  but  its  open  expression  was  restrained 
from  time  to  time  by  temporizing  legislation.  The  growth  of 
the  Order  and  the  gradual  development  of  its  moral  aspects 
were  far  in  advance  of  the  ritual.  Its  lodge-rooms  were  crowded 
with  initiates  gathered  from  every  class  and  calling ;  merchants, 
mechanics,  and  professional  men.  The  old  element  wras  sup- 
planted or  put  in  the  minority,  or,  as  in  many  well-known 
instances,  heartily  joined  in  the  cry  for  reform.  In  process  of 
time  the  new  and  more  refined  element  succeeded  to  the  control 
of  the  State  jurisdictions ;  revision  and  a  better  administration  of 
the  whole  system  followed.  State  constitutions  were  amended 
and  digested,  and  the  laws  more  strictly  enforced  and  obeyed* 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.          319 

The  proxy  system  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  fell 
before  it,  and  the  present  splendid  body  sprung  into  a  vigorous 
existence. 

REVISION  OF  1845. 

At  the  session  of  1844  there  came  to  Baltimore  a  demand, 
general,  earnest,  irresistible,  for  an  improved  work  ;  a  moral  more 
distinctive  and  didactic,  a  sentiment  more  elevated  and  inspiring, 
a  principle  of  deeper  significance,  a  purer  and  truer  tone,  and  the 
embodiment  of  all  these  in  a  literature  worthy  of  a  cause  so 
noble  and  a  work  so  great.     This  demand  intimidated  and  over- 
came the  opposition  to  reform.     That  opposition  was  not  without 
specious  arguments  for  its  existence.     It  extolled  the  policy  of 
uniformity  and  adherence  to  the  past,  and  dwelt  with  much  em- 
phasis upon  the  expense  incident  to  the  preparation,  printing  and 
distribution  of  the  change.   These  objections  served  only  to  awaken 
distrust  and  increase  the  desire  for  a  revision  of  the  work.     The 
majority  was  in  no  humor  to  be  foiled,  and  took  every  precaution 
to  ensure  success.     To  this  end  it  was  determined,  with  great 
unanimity,  that  the  committee  should  be  appointed  by  the  ballot. 
The  election  took  place,  and  the  following  were  chosen :  Rep. 
Chapin  of  Massachusetts  and  G.  Sec.  Bidgely,  Reps.  McCabe  of 
Yirginia,  Moore  of  the  District  of  Columbia,  and  P.  G.  Sire 
Kennedy.     All  the  members  of  the  committee  were  not  present 
at  the  preparation  of  the  revision,  which  was  done  at  a  meeting 
called  in  the  city  of  New  York ;  Rep.  McCabe  having  failed  to  receive 
notice  of  the  time  and  place  of  meeting.     It  thus  unfortunately 
happened  that  this  able  gentleman  took  no  part  in  the  reforma- 
tion of  the  subordinate  and  G.  Lodge  work.     Chapin,  Ridgely, 
Moore,  and  Kennedy  therefore  acted  in  his  absence,  and  made 
ready  for  the  session  to  which  their  labors  should  be  submitted. 
The  G.  Lodge,  impatient  and  zealous,  had  provided  for  a 
special  session  to  be  called  whenever  the  committee  should  give 
notice  of  their  readiness  to  make  their  report.     The  notice  was 
given,  and  G.  Sire  H.  Hopkins,  by  proclamation  dated  30th  day 
of  May,  1845,  called  a  special  session  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United   States,  to  meet  in  Baltimore  on  the  9th  of  September, 
1845,  "  to  take  into  consideration  the  report  which  shall  be  made 
by  the  committee  appointed  to  revise  all  the  lectures  and  charges 
of  the  Order."      The  special   session  met,  and  Rep.  McCabe 


320  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

having  carefully  examined  the  work  of  his  colleagues,  concurred 
with  them  and  signed  the  report.  This  revision,  known  as  that 
of  1845,  was  at  once  adopted.  The  changes  made  were  funda- 
mental and  thorough,  and  left  but  little  more  to  be  done  in  the 
way  of  progress.  It  is  worthy  of  mention  that  the  work  of  the 
committee  was  accepted  as  a  whole.  It  is  now  in  print  in  the 
archives  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  a  comparison  with  the  revised 
work  as  adopted  will  show  an  approval  almost  literatim  et  ver- 
batim. 

This  constituted  the  ritual  of  the  Order  from  1845  to  1873, 
without  change,  and  is  virtually  the  present  ritual,  not  having 
been  disturbed  in  substance  by  the  later  revision,  which  mainly 
addressed  itself  to  transpositions  from  the  secret  work  to  the 
lecture  and  charge  books,  to  enable  officers  of  subordinates  to 
become  more  familiar  with  it.  It  also  corrected  the  deficient 
syntax  and  language,  which  had  from  time  to  time  been  left 
untouched.  "With  no  purpose  to  point  out  the  changes  made  in 
1845,  it  may  be  stated  generally  that  the  initiatory  and  degree 
work  were  not  only  improved  in  literary  style,  but  were  absolutely 
changed  both  in  the  moral  and  the  sentiment  by  which  they  wTere 
enforced.  The  latter  was  elevated  and  made  to  conform  closely 
to  the  cardinal  feature  of  Odd  Fellowship.  A  system  wras  for  the 
first  time  introduced  with  a  basis  upon  which  the  whole  structure 
was  made  to  rest.  This  was  done  by  building  the  entire  fabric 
upon  the  P.  Grand's  charge.  The  old  charge  was  formal,  un- 
meaning, and  Masonic ;  this  was  at  once  abolished,  and  never 
afterwards  referred  to.  Its  substitute  begins  at  the  threshold  and 
follows  the  brother  to  the  Royal  Purple  Degree.  As  a  curious 
document,  Grand  Sec.  Ridgely  has  preserved  the  rough  draft  of 
the  Past  Grand's  charge,  as  offered  by  him  in  committee,  with 
all  its  erasures  and  interlineations ;  by  comparison  one  may  dis- 
cover to  what  extent  his  original  contribution  was  used  by  the1 
committee.  A  fac-simile  impression  of  the  document  has  been 
produced,  by  photographic  process  from  the  original,  upon  type 
metal,  and  the  engraving  is  in  every  way  a  faithful  copy. 

This  paper  is  now  on  file  in  the  G.  Secretary's  office  as  a 
minute  of  one  of  the  most  interesting  events  in  the  history  of 
the  Secret  Work — a  memorable  period,  when  our  arcana  took  new 
form  and  significance,  and  presented  itself  in  glowing  colors  to 
the  new  intelligence  that  had  found  its  way  to  our  temples. 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.         321 

P.  G.  Sire  Moore  has  furnished,  as  his  memoranda  of  the  in- 
cidents attending  the  revision  of  1845,  the  following: 

"  The  committee,  with  the  exception  of  Bro.  McCabe,  who  was  de- 
tained at  home  by  professional  duty,  first  met  in  Baltimore,  in  the 
month  of  March,  at  the  office  of  the  G.  Secretary.  They  then  pro- 
ceeded with  the  business  assigned  them.  Bros.  Chapin  and  Kennedy 
suggested  and  argued  for  an  important  alteration  in  the  ceremony 
of  initiation ;  to  this  radical  change  Bros.  Eidgely  and  Moore 
dissented,  and  the  subject  was  not  further  pressed  at  that  time. 
The  degrees  of  the  subordinate  lodges  were  then  taken  up  seria- 
tim. After  the  first  reading  of  the  White  Degree,  it  was  again 
read  and  thoroughly  amended.  Then  the  Covenant  Degree  was 
considered,  and  it  was  determined  that  the  narrative  therein 
should  be  retained,  and,  with  some  modification  of  the  formula, 
this  degree  was  passed.  The  Royal  Blue,  Remembrance,  and 
Scarlet  Degrees  were  then  successively  read,  and  it  was  concluded 
that  they  would  require  more  thorough  amendment  than  could 
be  creditably  performed  at  that  meeting ;  and  thereupon  Bro. 
Kennedy  moved  to  divide  the  duty  of  amending  the  remaining 
portion  of  the  work  of  subordinate  lodges  among  the  members  of 
the  committee  then  present,  with  instructions  to  report  at  the 
next  meeting,  and  that  when  the  committee  should  adjourn  for 
that  day,  it  should  be  to  meet  in  New  York  in  the  ensuing  month 
of  May.  This  motion  was  adopted.  It  has  already  been 
mentioned  that  there  existed  a  difference  of  opinion  concerning 
the  emblem ;  but  both  sides  recognized  the  fact  that,  whatever 
the  emblem  might  be,  it  could  not  affect  an  appropriate  exposi- 
tion of  the  principles  and  objects  of  the  Order.  To  Ridgely 
was  assigned  the  preparation  of  the  Past  Grand's  Charge,  to 
Moore  the  Royal  Blue  Degree,  to  Kennedy  the  Remembrance 
Degree,  and  to  Chapin  the  Scarlet  Degree ;  the  work  of  each  to 
be  submitted  to  the  committee  at  its  next  meeting.  With  the 
exception  of  the  Past  Grand's  Charge,  devolved  upon  Ridgely, 
there  was  no  allotment  of  the  initiatory  ceremony,  but  it  was 
agreed  that  the  adverse  parties  should  submit  their  respective 
views  of  its  modification  in  their  own  way. 

"  The  committee  met  in  May,  as  agreed  upon;  Bros.  Chapin, 

Ridgely,  Kennedy,  and   Moore  being  present.     The  papers  of 

Ridgely  and  Moore  having  been  submitted  to  and  approved  by 

the   committee,   these   brothers   were   greatly    disappointed    on 

21 


322  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

learning  that  their  colleagues  had  neglected  to  prepare  the 
degrees  committed  to  them.  They  had  a  form  of  initiation  com- 
plete, according  to  their  views,  and,  in  addition  to  this,  Chapin 
had  some  sheets  of  paper  on  which  were  jotted  down,  in  uncon- 
nected form,  but  in  beautiful  and  eloquent  language,  some  excel- 
lent ideas,  of  which  the  committee  were  proud  to  avail  them- 
selves in  the  course  of  their  deliberations,  by  adapting  portions- 
of  them  to  particular  parts  of  the  work;  and  Kennedy  had  some 
notes  of  changes  deemed  necessary  in  the  ceremonies  of  installa- 
tion and  other  formalities  pertaining  to  the  subordinate  work  of 
the  Order. 

"  It  has  been  already  stated  that  the  committee,  at  their  meet- 
ing in  Baltimore,  had  satisfactorily  arranged  the  White  and  Cov- 
enant Degrees,  and,  on  the  resumption  of  their  labors  at  New 
York,  had  adopted  the  Royal  Blue  Degree,  as  presented  by 
Moore.  They  then  proceeded  to  consider,  as  in  committee  of  the 
whole,  the  Remembrance  Degree,  in  the  same  manner  as  the 
White  and  Covenant  Degrees  had  been  considered  at  Baltimore. 
The  first  question  presented  was  as  to  the  retention  of  the  cita- 
tions from  Holy  Writ  which  graced  that  degree  and  formed  the 
largest  portion  of  it.  This  question  having  been  decided  in  the 
affirmative,  the  remainder  of  the  degree  gave  but  little  trouble. 
Chapin's  manuscripts  afforded  nearly  all  other  matter  that  was 
desired  to  perfect  it.  The  eloquent  opening  lecture  of  the  Noble 
Grand  was  his  production,  and  the  concluding  charge  of  the  same 
officer  was  derived,  probably  with  some  amendments,  from  the 
old  work.  Then,  taking  up  the  Scarlet  Degree,  recourse  was 
again  had  to  the  beautiful  conceptions  of  moral  duty  embodied 
in  the  manuscripts  of  Chapin,  from  which  were  selected  the  open- 
ing charge  of  the  Yice  Grand,  and  also  the  first  paragraph  of  the 
lecture  of  the  Noble  Grand.  At  that  point  Ridgely  inserted  the 
explanation  of  the  colors  of  the  Order,  by  Bro.  Bradley,  of  Con- 
necticut, and  what  follows  is  a  continuation  of  Chapin's  lecture, 
down  to  and  including  the  paragraph  next  to  the  last  one.  At 
that  place  Moore  inserted  an  allusion  to  the  symbol  of  mortality, 
which  he  obtained  from  a  letter  of  Bro.  Williamson ;  and  the 
last  paragraph  of  that  lecture  was  a  further  continuation  from 
Chapin's  papers.  Thus  ended  the  most  important  of  the  labors 
of  the  committee  in  the  preparation  of  the  degrees  of  subordinate 
lodges.  Of  course  some  changes  of  phraseology  were  necessary  to 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.          3l:3 

unite  and  harmonize  different  parts  of  the  work  in  preparing  it 
for  the  press,  which  duty  was  allotted  to  Moore. 

"  Three  or  four  days  had  now  been  spent  in  New  York,  and  the 
Encampment  work,  though  repeatedly  alluded  to  in  conversation, 
had  not  yet  been  reached  in  the  formal  deliberations  of  the  com- 
mittee. But,  being  at  length  taken  up,  Kennedy  proposed  that 
its  different  parts  should  be  referred  to  members  of  the  committee 
then  present,  with  instructions  to  submit  their  report  at  an  ad- 
journed meeting  of  the  committee,  to  be  held  in  Baltimore  on 
the  day  preceding  the  convening  of  the  special  session  of  the? 
Grand  Lodge,  required  to  be  called  to  consider  the  report  of  the 
committee;  and,  this  proposition  having  been  accepted,  the  En- 
campment degrees  were  allotted  as  follows :  To  Bro.  Chapin,  the 
Patriarchal ;  to  Bro.  Kennedy,  the  Golden  Rule ;  and  to  Bros. 
Moore  and  Ridgely,  the  Royal  Purple.  The  committee  then  ad- 
journed, having  first  directed  that  the  Grand  Sire  should  be  noti- 
fied of  their  readiness  to  report. 

"  The  G.  Sire  called  the  special  session  of  the  G.  Lodge 
to  meet  at  Baltimore  on  Tuesday,  the  9th  of  September, 
1845,  six  days  prior  to  the  time  prescribed  for  the  annual  meet- 
ing of  that  year.  The  Representatives,  generally,  were  prompt 
in  attendance,  and  of  those  composing  the  Committee  on  Revision 
there  wTere  present  Bros.  Ridgely,  Kennedy,  Moore,  and  McCabe. 
Bro.  Chapin  was  absent,  and  his  absence  was  the  more  regretted 
when  it  was  found  that  the  degrees  of  the  Patriarchal  branch  of 
the  Order,  which  had  been  referred  to  him  and  to  Kennedy,  had 
not  been  prepared,  and  that  this  failure  would  necessarily  prevent 
a  decision  on  the  entire  work  of  the  Order  at  the  special  session. 
All  of  the  degrees  for  subordinate  lodges,  however,  had  been 
printed  under  the  supervision  of  Bro.  Moore ;  and  the  same  pam- 
phlet contained,  in  addition  to  the  degrees,  the  regulations  for 
opening  and  closing  lodges ;  the  order  of  their  business ;  the  forms 
of  installation  for  and  the  obligations  of  officers,  and  the  charges 
to  be  delivered  by  the  installing  officer ;  also,  the  ceremony  of 
installation  for  Grand  Officers,  and  their  respective  obligations  and 
charges,  together  with  the  regulations  and  charges  for  constitut- 
ing lodges,  making  in  all  eighty-six  octavo  pages.  On  the  after- 
noon of  the  first  day  of  the  special  session  copies  of  this  pamphlet 
were  distributed  among  the  members,  and  were  received  with 
general  expressions  of  approbation,  but  the  Grand  Lodge  did  not 
proceed  to  consider  the  report  until  the  next  morning.  It  was 


324:  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

then  determined,  in  order  to  afford  the  greatest  latitude  to  debate, 
that  the  report  should  be  considered  in  committee  of  the  whole, 
and  the  privilege  of  debate  extended  to  the  officers  of  the  lodge. 

"  The  G.  Lodge  then  resolved  itself  into  a  committee  of  the 
whole,  and  called  to  the  chair  P.  G.  M.  Richard  Marley,  of  Mary- 
land. The  ceremonies  of  initiation  were  first  taken  up.  Of  this 
part  of  the  work  the  Committee  on  Revision  had,  with  perfect  har- 
mony, presented  two  forms,  representing  their  respective  views. 
Form  No.  1  was  the  favorite  of  Chapin  and  Kennedy,  and  form 
No.  2,  prepared  by  Moore,  represented  the  views  of  himself  and 
Ridgely.  The  peculiar  feature  in  the  first  form  consisted  of  a 
radical  change  in  the  manner  of  initiation,  as  has  been  above 
alluded  to.  This  had  but  few  supporters,  and,  having  been  dis- 
agreed to,  the  entire  production  failed.  But  of  this  form  Moore  had 
transferred  the  most  attractive  passages  to  form  No.  2,  and  also 
Ridgely's  Past  Grand's  charge,  so  that  by  the  rejection,  as  an 
entirety,  of  form  No.  1,  the  Order  did  not  lose  the  benefit  of  such 
parts  of  it  as  it  was  desirable  to  retain.  Form  No.  2,  however, 
prior  to  its  adoption,  received  several  amendments,  made  at  the 
instance  of  Bro.  Moore,  the  chief  of  which  was  the  introduction 
of  the  present  Warden's  charge  in  lieu  of  the  charge  reported. 
This  charge  was  suggested  to  the  mover  by  Bro.  Williamson.  The 
Past  Grand's  charge  of  Ridgely  underwent  two  verbal  amend- 
ments. These  were  the  only  changes  made  in  that  comprehen- 
sive and  impressive  charge.  The  ceremonial  pertaining  to  initia- 
tion, as  amended,  was  then  agreed  to ;  and,  as  indicative  of  the 
scrutiny  exercised  by  the  Grand  Lodge,  it  may  be  stated  that, 
independently  of  several  verbal  amendments,  twelve  distinct 
votes  were  taken  on  different  parts  of  this  ceremony,  all  of 
which  were  decided  in  the  affirmative  without  a  division. 

"  The  regulations  proposed  for  opening  and  closing  lodges,  pre- 
scribing the  order  of  their  business,  and  for  the  installation  of 
officers,  were  next  considered,  and  a  separate  vote  taken  on  each. 
They  were  all  adopted  without  amendment. 

"The  degrees  of  subordinate  lodges  were  then  considered. 
The  only  alteration  made  in  the  White  Degree  was  the  omission 
from  the  dialogue  of  one  question  and  answer,  viz  :  '  Do  our  laws 
forbid  the  use  of  wine?'  *  No,  they  only  forbid  the  abuse  of  it.' 
No  alteration  was  made  in  the  Covenant  Degree  except  near  the 
close  of  the  obligation.  The  phraseology  of  the  Royal  Blue 


THE  DEGBEES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.         325 

Degree  was  amended  at  the  close  of  the  opening  charge,  and  near 
the  close  of  the  concluding  charge.  In  both  cases  several  sen- 
tences deemed  to  be  superfluous  were  stricken  out.  The  Re- 
membrance  Degree  was  adopted  with  but  a  single  verbal 
amendment;  as  prepared  by  Bro.  Chapin  the  opening  charge  of 
the  Noble  Grand  read,  '  and  bids  us  do  unto  others  as  we  would 
be  done  by.'  The  quotation  was  corrected  by  making  it  read, 
4  and  bids  us  do  unto  others  as  we  would  that  they  should  do 
unto  us.'  This  was  the  only  alteration  in  that  degree.  And 
the  Scarlet  Degree  was  adopted  without  amendment  of  any  kind. 

"  The  general  instructions  for  conferring  the  degrees  were  then 
taken  up,  amended,  and  adopted;  and,  after  these,  came  the 
ceremony  for  the  installation  of  Grand  Officers,  together  with 
their  respective  charges,  and,  finally,  the  regulations  for  consti- 
tuting Lodges,  in  the  revision  of  all  of  which  Bro.  Kennedy  had 
performed  efficient  service.  They  were  all  adopted  after  having 
received  some  trivial  verbal  amendments ;  and  this  concluded  all 
of  the  work  then  reported  by  the  Committee  on  Revision. 

"  The  committee  of  the  whole  then  rose,  and  by  its  chairman  re- 
ported favorably  on  the  report  of  the  committee  as  amended,  in 
which  form  they  recommended  to  the  Grand  Lodge  its  adoption,  <  as 
the  proper  work  of  the  Order ';  and  the  recommendation  of  the 
committee  of  the  whole  was  agreed  to,  yeas  32,  nays  13. 

"  During  the  sitting  of  the  special  session,  on  Saturday,  the 
day  succeeding  the  adoption  of  the  new  work,  it  was  unanimously 
resolved,  '  that  the  thanks  of  this  Grand  Lodge  be  and  are 
hereby  tendered  to  the  committee  on  revision  of  the  work  of  the 
Order,  for  the  very  able  report  they  have  made,  and  for  their  in- 
defatigable exertions  in  the  cause  of  Odd  Fellowship ';  and  on 
the  same  day  it  was  further  resolved,  that  the  revised  lectures 
and  charges  of  subordinate  lodges  should  be  used  by  such  lodges 
from  and  after  the  first  of  January,  1846. 

"  There  was  manifest  disappointment,  both  at  the  special  and 
regular  sessions  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  that  the  Patriarchal  De- 
grees had  not  been  submitted  with  the  other  work ;  and,  before 
proceeding  further  with  this  narrative,  it  is  proper  here  to  state 
that  the  prominence  acquired  by  Bro.  Moore  in  the  procurement 
of  those  degrees  was  purely  accidental.  It  resulted  as  a  conse- 
quence from  his  preparation  of  the  Royal  Purple  Degree  prior 
to  the  meeting  of  the  special  session.  This  degree  had  been 


326  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

referred  to  himself  and  Bro.  Ridgely ;  but  at  that  time  Ridgely 
had  no  clerical  aid  in  his  office,  except  what  was  rendered  by  the 
messenger,  and  his  official  duties  exclusively  engrossed  his  atten- 
tion. In  view  of  this  situation  of  his  colleague,  Bro.  Moore  ven- 
tured to  prepare  the  degree  ;  and  after  it  had  been  finished,  not 
wishing  to  rely  upon  his  own  judgment,  he  got  a  member  of  his 
Encampment  to  put  the  degree  in  type,  and  strike  off  a  number 
of  '  galley  proofs,'  one  or  two  copies  of  which  were  transmitted 
to  each  member  of  the  committee,  that  they  might  be  the  better 
qualified  to  improve  and  amend  it  at  the  meeting  of  the  commit- 
tee directed  to  be  held  on  the  day  preceding  the  convening  of  the 
special  session  of  the  G.  Lodge.  This  degree  having  been  by 
some  means  disclosed,  Bro.  Moore,  on  appearing  at  the  annual 
session,  after  the  G.  Lodge  had  been  opened,  and  at  a  moment 
when  it  was  proposed  to  continue  the  committee  on  revision,  was 
met  in  the  principal  aisle  of  the  hall  by  half  a  dozen  or  more 
members,  who  invoked  his  efforts  to  have  the  other  Encampment 
degrees  prepared  during  that  session.  Then  proceeding  to  his 
seat  and  addressing  the  chair,  he  stated  that  if  the  proposition 
then  pending  should  be  withdrawn,  and  the  committee  be  per- 
mitted to  retire,  it  was  possible  that  the  Patriarchal  work  might 
be  completed  before  the  close  of  the  session.  This  suggestion 
met  with  approval,  and  the  committee  having  retired  to  the 
office  of  the  Grand  Secretary,  Bro.  Moore  proposed  that  the 
subjects  previously  agreed  upon  for  the  Patriarchal  and  Golden 
Rule  Degrees  be  changed.  The  subject  selected  by  Bro.  Chapin 
for  the  Patriarchal  Degree  was  a  general  review  of  the  subordi- 
nate degrees  and  of  the  moral  duties  therein  inculcated,  and  the 
subject  selected  by  Bro.  Kennedy  for  the  Golden  Rule  Degree 
was,  after  the  model  of  the  old  work,  a  history  of  the  Order. 
Bro.  Moore  moved  that  in  lieu  of  these  subjects  those  of  the 
present  degrees  be  adopted,  which  motion  having  been  agreed  to, 
the  committee  returned  to  their  seats  in  the  Grand  Lodge  and 
reported  that  they  hoped  to  be  able  to  supply  the  degrees  at  that 
session.  Bro.  Moore  would  not  have  ventured  upon  this  rash 
proceeding  but  for  the  fact  that  he  knew  there  were  present  two 
^  learned  and  able  brothers,  who,  in  the  course  of  private  conver- 
sations with  him,  in  previous  years,  had  advanced  ideas  on  the 
newly  proposed  subjects  which  he  and  they  supposed  might  be 
wrought  into  appropriate  degrees.  One  of  these  brothers  was 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.         327 

the  Kev.  James  D.  McCabe,  a  Representative  from  Virginia, 
who  had  been  elected  a  member  of  the  committee  on  revision, 
but  was  prevented  from  attending  the  meetings  of  the  committee 
by  pressing  duties  of  his  clerical  office ;  and  the  other  was  the 
Rev.  Isaac  D.  Williamson,  of  Maryland,  who  had  repeatedly 
served  as  a  Representative  and  as  Chaplain  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 
The  seats  of  Moore  and  McCabe  were  adjacent,  and  as  soon  as 
they  had  been  seated  after  returning  from  the  committee,  Moore 
communicated  his  design  to  McCabe,  and  requested  him  to  retire 
to  his  room  at  the  '  Fountain  Inn  '  and  prepare  the  Patriarchal 
Degree,  so  that  it  might  be  presented  the  next  morning.  Thus 
taken  by  surprise,  McCabe  remonstrated  and  protested  that  it  was 
impossible  ;  but  his  genial  and  accommodating  spirit  soon  yielded 
to  the  solicitations  of  his  colleague,  and  he  left  the  hall.  Moore 
then  crossed  over  to  Williamson,  and,  after  reminding  him  of 
former  conversations,  and  informing  him  of  the  subject  adopted 
for  the  Golden  Rule  Degree,  requested  that  he  would  retire  and 
prepare  it,  which  office  was  accepted  with  the  complaisance  char- 
acteristic of  that  estimable  brother.  The  result  was  the  produc- 
tion on  the  next  morning  of  both  degrees,  which,  together  with 
the  Royal  Purple  Degree,  were  formally  submitted  to  the  Grand 
Lodge  by  the  committee,  and  in  the  afternoon  of  the  same  day 
were  taken  up,  considered,  and  adopted,  the  only  votes  in  the 
negative  being  those  of  Past  Grand  Sire  Hopkins  of  Pennsylva- 
nia, Rep.  Holden  of  Maryland,  and  Rep.  Gilley  of  New  York. 
This  prompt  approval  of  their  work  by  the  Supreme  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  Order  happily  terminated,  amid  joyful  and  enthusi- 
astic congratulations  on  all  sides,  the  labors  of  the  Committee  on 
Revision  of  1844-5." 

The  new  Encampment  work  was  founded  on  the  old,  that  is  to 
say,  upon  the  three  degrees  originally  conferred  upon  P.  Grands  only 
in  the  body  of  the  G.  Lodge,  and  which  wrere  afterwards  given  to 
Scarlet  Degree  members  by  means  of  the  Encampment.  The 
abolition  of  the  oaths  was  but  a  very  small  part  of  the  change 
•effected  by  these  successive  revisions.  That,  with  other  forms  of 
the  English  system,  were  found  not  suitable  to  this  country,  not 
to  speak  of  the  alterations  in  design,  tone,  and  literary  finish. 
This  will  particularly  appear  by  an  examination  of  the  fifth 
degree,  and  especially  of  its  theory  and  application  of  the  colors, 
a  fine  contribution  of  Rev.  C.  W.  Bradley,  an  Episcopal  clergy- 
man, and  G.  Rep.  from  Connecticut. 


328  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  substantial  changes  in  the  rituals,  or  more  properly  the 
degrees  as  they  originally  existed,  and  as  they  appear  in  the 
several  editions,  of  which  copies  are  preserved  in  the  archives,, 
cannot  of  course  be  set  forth  in  these  pages.  An  examination  of 
these  relics  would  repay  the  curious,  as  successive  proofs  of  the 
growth  of  Odd  Fellowship,  from  its  crude  state  to  its  present 
beautiful  system.  Such  an  inquiry  would  exhibit  a  striking 
instance  of  the  success  which  attends  co-operative  eifort. 

THE    UNWRITTEN    WORK. 

In  what  we  have  said  of  the  degrees,  we  wish  to  be  under- 
stood as  speaking  exclusively  of  the  written  work,  lectures  and 
charges ;  the  secret  or  unwritten  work  of  the  degrees  demands- 
a  brief  consideration.  This  is  substantially  the  same  as  when 
received  by  Washington  Lodge  from  the  Manchester  Unity,. 
except  in  so  far  as  modified  by  Bro.  Wildey  in  concert  with  our 
English  brethren  in  1826.  The  best  known  modification  con- 
sisted of  the  "hew  signs"  of  initiation,  which  had  been  intro- 
duced in  England  in  consequence  of  the  exposure  of  the  originals. 
Bro.  Wildey  reported  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  IT.  S.  that  this- 
alteration  would,  in  his  opinion,  "be  productive  of  good  to  the 
Order  ";  but  that  body  decided  that  the  change  of  "  signs  "  was 
an  innovation  upon  the  ancient  landmarks  of  the  Order,  and 
that  it  would  adhere  to  the  "  old  signs."  At  the  same  time  it 
was  ordered  that  all  brothers  should  be  instructed  in  both  the 
new  and  ancient  signs,  to  the  end  that  should  any  of  them  visit 
England  or  meet  with  one  who  had  only  the  new  signs,  he  might 
be  able  to  prove  or  to  be  proved  by  him.  The  Manchester 
Unity  was  also  requested  "  to  give  the  ancient  as  well  as  the 
new  signs  to  all  brothers  about  to  visit  this  country."  (Journal 
85.)  Of  course  the  recommendation  had  no  effect,  as  the  aboli- 
tion of  the  old  signs  had  been  fully  consummated  by  the  Unity. 
But  the  eifort  to  adhere  to  ancient  usage  on  our  part  was  of 
short  duration  ;  the  ancient  signs  were  nominally  continued  in 
the  initiatory,  but  both  signs  were  allowed  to  be  used  :  ultimately 
the  new  sign  was  fully  established.  (Journal  93.) 

This  may  be  considered  the  original  departure  of  the  English 
Order,  which,  in  spite  of  all  our  appeals  and  remonstrances,  was- 
allowed  to  widen  and  deepen  until  a  separation  was  forced  upon 
us.  These  deviations  were  unnecessary,  and  eventually  caused 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH. 

the  division  of  Odd  Fellowship  into  English  and  American^ 
Thus  the  unwritten  Work,  as  we  received  it  with  the  English 
ritual,  continued  during  the  first  decade  unchanged ;  excepting, 
of  course,  the  additions  made  by  the  two  intermediate  and  other- 
American  degrees.  True,  it  had  no  existence  save  in  the  mem- 
ory of  the  brethren,  or  in  brief  and  curious  manuscript  elucida- 
tions contained  in  the  lecture  and  charge  books.  These  exposi- 
tions were  sometimes  obscured  by  asterisks  or  by  mystic  letter- 
ing ;  sometimes  they  were  written  in  cipher  or  hieroglyphics  for 
the  enlightenment  of  dull  officers.  Nevertheless,  it  was  pre- 
served with  sufficient  accuracy  for  the  preservation  of  general 
uniformity  throughout  all  our  jurisdictions  up  to  1848. 

We  will  close  this  interesting  subject  with  a  brief  remark 
upon  the  secret  work  of  the  Patriarchal  Order.  Whether  this- 
unwritten  language  is  the  same  as  that  originally  introduced 
with  the  three  degrees  into  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland,  or  was-- 
changed  at  or  after  the  time  of  their  incorporation  into  the  En- 
campment system,  we  cannot  say.  Certainly  it  is  the  same  now 
as  when  used  with  those  degrees  in  the  first  Encampment,  with 
the  exception  of  the  distinctive  sign  of  the  initiatory  degree, 
which  was  abolished  by  the  revision  of  1845. 

THE    SECRET    JOURNAL. 

At  the  session  of  1847  a  committee,  consisting  of  P.  G. 
Sires  Wildey,  Hopkins,  Glazier  and  Kennedy,  and  G.  Sec. 
Ridgely,  was  appointed  "  to  prepare  and  report  full  and  complete- 
instructions  in  the  secret  work  of  the  Order."  The  report  wa& 
made  by  Bro.  Hopkins,  P.  G.  Sire,  at  the  next  session  (1848),  and 
was  adopted.  From  that  time  a  Secret  Journal  has  beer,  kept, 
in  which  a  special  record  has  been  made  of  the  secret  work.  The 
identity  and  security  of  this  journal  have  been  secured  by  the 
aid  of  strong  constitutional  supports.  Since  then  the  G.  Lodge 
has  reviewed  this  work  from  time  to  time  and  enriched  it  with 
diagrams  taken  from  living  subjects,  but  it  remains  for  the  most 
part  as  in  the  original  report  of  1848.  The  history  of  the  pre- 
servation of  the  secret  work  is  worthy  of  mention.  In  1846,. 
a  resolution  "  that  the  unwritten  work  of  the  Order  shall  in  no- 
wise be  altered  or  amended  except  by  a  unanimous  vote  of  thi& 
Grand  Lodge,"  was  adopted.  In  1847,  this  proceeding  was  de- 
clared "  null  and  void,"  and  an  amendment  to  the  constitution 


330  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

embodying  the  provision  of  the  resolution,  was  submitted,  laid 
on  the  table,  and  at  the  session  of  1848  adopted  by  a  unanimous 
vote.  (Journal  964, 1093, 1101, 1123, 1241, 1278).  The  aim  was 
not  only  to  secure  permanency,  but  to  ensure,  if  possible,  actual 
certainty  and  correctness.  But  this  object  was  liable  to  be  de- 
feated by  a  habit  wThich  had  grown  up,  of  applying  to  G.  Sires  in 
cases  of  real  or  supposed  necessity  for  decisions  upon  the  un- 
written work.  Some  of  the  G.  Sires  assumed  and  others  refused  to 
construe  this  code,  the  latter  more  wisely  referring  every  inquiry 
to  the  "  ita  lex  scripta."  By  these  constructions  it  was  seriously 
feared  that  the  text  would  in  time  become  dangerously  impaired. 
To  remedy  constantly  recurring  difficulties  of  this  nature,  recourse 
was  had  to  various  expedients,  and  G.  Sires  were  prohibited 
from  deciding  upon  such  questions. 

The  Secret  Journal  before  referred  to  was  at  length  made  its 
own  interpreter,  and  its  diagrams  speak  and  teach  with  no  need 
of  an  instructor.  The  first  diagrams  were  executed  by  P.  G. 
Rep.  Woolford,  of  Kentucky.  But,  in  spite  of  prohibitions,  a 
•commentary  has  found  its  way  into  the  secret  journal.  The 
work,  composed  of  a  few  pages  of  foolscap  in  1848,  had  multi- 
plied to  four  times  that  volume  in  1856,  when  it  was  reported 
with  a  digest  of  the  decisions  upon  it,  and  in  that  form  was 
adopted.  New  diagrams  were,  under  the  supervision  of  Bro. 
Stuart,  P.  G.  Sire,  subsequently  obtained,  and  at  the  present  time, 
with  the  code,  sacredly  perpetuate  the  unwritten  work  as  originally 
•constructed. 

THE  TWO  NEW  SIGNS  AND  THE  DEGREE  OF  REBEKAH. 

The  subject  may  be  dismissed  by  the  statement  that  the 
greater  part  of  our  Work  is  fully  entitled  to  be  called  American. 
We  may  enumerate  the  Covenant  and  Remembrance,  the  Grand 
Lodge,  the  Royal  Purple  and  Grand  Encampment  degrees.  To 
these  we  may  add  the  degree  of  Rebekah.  Two  signs  have  also 
heen  added  in  this  country,  namely,  the  hailing  sign  and  the 
•sign  of  recognition.  The  Rebekah  degree  was  adopted  at  the 
session  of  1851,  and  was  the  production  of  Schuyler  Colfax,  G. 
Rep.  of  Indiana.  (Journal  1793).  It  was  intended  as  an  hon- 
orary degree  for  Scarlet  members  and  their  wives  (Journal  1841), 
but  has  since  taken  a  much  wider  scope.  In  many  jurisdictions 
it  has  assumed  great  importance,  and  may  yet  carve  for  itself  a 
history. 


THE  DEGKEES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.         331 

The  hailing  sign,  originally  called  the  Hailing  or  Sea  sign, 
formerly  supposed  to  have  been  adopted  in  1845,  was  the  pro- 
duction of  G.  Rep.  Charles  Whitall,  of  Louisiana.  From  the 
fact  that  this  sign  nowhere  has  mention  in  the  report  of  the 
•committee  of  revision  of  the  work  made  in  September,  1845, 
and  does  not  appear  in  the  charge-book  printed  in  1846,  it  is 
inferred  that  it  was  adopted  at  the  session  of  1846.  The  sign  of 
recognition  was  adopted  at  the  session  of  the  Grand  Lodge  held 
in  1870.  It  was  reported  by  a  committee  consisting  of  Reps. 
Porter,  of  California ;  Stokes,  of  Pennsylvania ;  White,  of  New 
York  ;  Maris,  of  Delaware ;  Perkins,  of  Massachusetts  ;  Barry, 
•of  Indiana ;  Escavaille,  of  Maryland ;  Curtis,  of  Michigan,  and 
Andrews,  of  Texas.  G.  Rep.  Nathan  Porter,  of  California, 
has  been  credited  with  the  suggestion,  and  no  one  has  ever 
-claimed  to  divide  the  honor  with  that  lamented  Odd  Fellow, 
who  has  been  removed  by  death  from  the  sphere  in  which  he 
moved  with  so  much  usefulness  to  the  Order  and  honor  to 
liimself. 

DEGREE     LODGES. 

Formerly  it  was  a  general  practice  for  the  members  to 
assemble  at  their  "  Lodge  House  "  on  the  Sabbath  day,  and  for 
the  N.  G.  of  the  lodge,  or  such  person  as  he  might  select  for  the 
purpose,  "  to  deliver  lecture,"  as  it  was  termed.  Afterwards  the 
•day  was  changed  to  some  convenient  evening  in  the  week,  but 
there  was  no  regularity  aboiit  it.  The  organization  for  this  pur- 
pose was  very  loose,  incompetent  persons  being  often  selected  to 
officiate,  or  members  were  forced  to  wait  until  proper  persons  to 
act  made  their  appearance.  The  regular  officers  at  a  much  later 
day  were  seldom  competent  for  the  undertaking;  consequently 
that  duty  was  performed  by  such  Past  Officers  as  could  be  pre- 
vailed upon  to  attend.  Looseness,  irregularity  and  confusion 
were  everywhere  characteristics  of  degree  work,  until  more 
suitable  arrangements  were  effected.  The  honor  of  the  reform 
belongs  to  Pennsylvania.  The  G.  Lodge  of  that  State  as  early 
as  August  27th,  1827,  granted  a  charter  to  Philadelphia  Degree 
Lodge,  No.  1,  for  the  purpose  of  "  the  more  effectually  conferring 
the  degrees."  Never  was  device  more  successful.  The  secret 
work  took  new  life  from  that  hour,  and  the  whole  interior  was 
illuminated  by  the  light  dispensed  by  the  new  machinery.  The 


332  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

example  was  contagious  and  the  effect  permanent.  The  Degree- 
Lodge  became  a  high  school  of  instruction  ;  its  graduates,  teach- 
ers and  workers  among  the  subordinates.  The  value  of  the  work 
was  more  than  doubled  :  initiates  began  to  aspire,  and  refused  to 
linger  at  the  threshold ;  and  the  Order  took  stronger  hold  upon 
its  membership.  To-day  degree  lodges  are  necessary  adjuncts: 
in  all  the  great  centres  of  Odd  Fellowship  they  adorn  and  magnify 
the  ritual.  These  are  indeed  our  temples ;  here  awe  and  mys- 
tery hold  court ;  here  robe  and  emblem  are  respectable ;  in  this 
inner  sanctuary  profane  haste  is  avoided,  profane  inattention 
cured,  the  candidate  satisfied  and  the  rites  exalted. 

The  charter  members  of  the  first  degree  lodge  were  P.  G.  M, 
Thomas  Small,  Dep.  G.  M.  William  H.  Matthews,  G.  W.  John 
G.  Potts,  and  P.  Grands  Isaac  Brown,  James  Day  and  Benjamin! 
Buckman.  The  example  of  Pennsylvania  was  not  at  once  fol- 
lowed, even  in  Maryland.  It  was  not  until  three  years  after  wards- 
that  P.  Grands  Ridgely,  Marley  and  Mathiot,  acting  as  a  com- 
mittee, recommended  the  establishment  of  a  degree  lodge  in  that 
State,  but  without  success.  Ancient  usage  was  against  it,  and 
the  older  members  refused  it  a  trial.  At  length,  on  the  12th  of 
May,  1831,  the  G.  Lodge  of  Maryland  agreed  to  form  a  degree- 
lodge,  by  a  vote  of  12  yeas  to  10  nays ;  Ridgely,  who  offered  the 
motion,  having  secured  'the  approbation  and  vote  of  G.  Sire 
"Wildey. 

THE   TRAVELING    PASSWORD. 

The  Traveling  Password  and  its  use  do  not  compose  a  degree,, 
but,  as  a  part  of  the  secret  work,  must  have  some  mention.  It 
came  in  with  the  system  of  cards  for  travel.  The  quarterly  pass- 
word was  of  too  short  duration  for  the  card,  which  was  usually 
for  a  longer  period.  Thus  an  annual  word  was  provided  to  meet 
the  exigency  of  a  card  for  a  year.  Its  first  official  notice  was  on 
February  22d,  1824,  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S. 
It  was  then  "Resolved,  that  a  T.  P.  W.  be  adopted  for  the  pro- 
tection of  the  Order  in  the  United  States  ";  it  proceeds :  "  When 
a  T.  P.  W.  for  the  current  year  was  selected."  This  was  neces- 
sary, because  the  password  differed  in  each  State ;  whereas,  in 
England  every  district  had  the  same  word.  It  is  not  known 
when  the  M.  Unity  began  the  use  of  this  test.  Its  minutes  in 
1826  recite  an  elaborate  resolution  about  Traveling  Cards ;  pro- 


THE  DEGREES  AND  ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH.         333 

Tiding  that  the  brother  was  entitled  to  benefits  from  his  lodge  for 
six  months,  and  authorizing  other  lodges  to  pay  him  and  collect 
from  his  lodge.  But  no  mention  is  made  of  any  test  of  his  right 
to  draw  the  money.  But,  at  the  session  of  1827,  the  omission  was 
supplied.  They  then  adopted  the  following:  "Resolved,  That 
the  traveling  password  be  divided  between  the  relieving  officer 
and  the  traveler,  and  that  officer  begin  by  syllables."  As  this 
was  an  explanatory,  and  not  an  originating  act,  it  is  presumed 
that  the  T.  P.  "W.  had  been  introduced  previously,  and  was  omit- 
ted from  the  minutes.  From  this  period  a  card  was  good  for 
twelve  months,  unless  a  shorter  time  was  expressed  upon  its  face. 

ANTI-MASONRY    AND   THE   OBLIGATION. 

The  obligation,  as  at  first  administered,  was,  in  its  nature, 
Masonic.  But  in  1826  a  storm  burst  upon  that  institution,  which 
for  a  time  caused  a  general  prejudice  against  secret  societies.  In 
the  village  of  Batavia,  situated  in  Western  New  York,  lived  a 
-certain  William  Morgan.  He  was  a  mechanic  and  a  Mason.  A 
rumor  was  rife  that  he  was  about  to  expose,  in  print,  the  secrets 
of  Free  Masonry.  This  report  caused  deep  feeling,  in  the  midst 
of  which  the  man  disappeared.  Terror  fell  upon  the  community ; 
some  said  he  had  been  abducted,  and  one  account  placed  him  in 
Asia ;  others  did  not  scruple  to  charge  his  murder  on  the  Masonic 
fraternity.  Newspapers  took  it  up — pulpits  thundered,  and  half 
the  country  was  electrified  with  excitement.  Politicians  eagerly 
seized  the  opportunity,  and  States  became  arenas  for  a  heated 
•conflict.  Anti-Masonry  became  the  watchword  of  a  powerful 
party  in  the  Union.  Its  candidate  for  Governor  of  New  York, 
in  1828,  received  33,000  votes ;  the  vote  rose  to  70,000  in  1829,  and 
to  more  than  100,000  in  1830.  The  new  party  was  in  all  the  then 
free  States.  'Vermont  then  took  the  lead,  and  Pennsylvania,  so 
late  as  1835,  elected  Ritner,  an  Anti-Mason,  Governor.  In  1832 
it  was  so  powerful  as  to  put  forth  Presidential  candidates.  Wil- 
liam Wirt,  of  Maryland,  was  the  nominee  for  President,  and 
Amos  Ellmaker,  of  Pennsylvania,  for  Vice-president.  Among 
its  leaders  were  to  be  found  such  men  as  William  H.  Seward,  of 
New  York,  and  John  Quincy  Adams,  of  Massachusetts.  This 
fury  of  faction  lasted  for  nearly  ten  years,  when  it  at  length  sub- 
sided. 


334:  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  Masons  came  out  of  the  conflict  with  the  honors  of  war; 
their  ability  was  more  than  equal  to  the  emergency ;  confidence 
was  restored  and  their  enemies  utterly  routed.  But  the  interval 
was  a  time  of  peril  and  a  day  of  threatening  calamity.  Odd  Fel- 
lowship suffered  the  most.  The  Masons  were  backed  by  the  whole 
world ;  we  had  not  even  the  sympathy  of  that  brotherhood. 
Massachusetts,  the  first  adherent  to  Maryland,  was  in  the  midst 
of  the  contention.  To  the  Order  in  that  State  it  was  a  mortal 
blow ;  the  body,  already  weak,  fell  before  it,  and  for  years  that 
light  that  now  glows  so  steadily  and  brightly  was  extinguished. 
But  hostile  legislation  had  done  lasting  injury.  Bro.  Paul,  of 
Massachusetts,  presented  the  grievance  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
the  United  States  on  August  16th,  1834.  His  communication 
contained  a  copy  of  a  law  aimed  at  the  existence  of  secret  socie- 
ties. It  was  passed  13th  March,  1833,  by  the  legislature  of  Mas- 
sachusetts, and  made  it  penal,  extra-judicially,  "  to  administer  or 
take  an  oath,  affirmation  or  obligation  in  the  nature  of  an  oath." 
Advice  and  action  were  demanded ;  if  they  violated  the  law,  in- 
dictment and  punishment  would  follow ;  if  they  obeyed  it,  the 
Order  was  effectually  suppressed.  The  subject  was  referred  to 
Reps.  Hopkins  and  Ridgely;  they  concluded  their  report 
as  follows :  "  Your  committee  have  examined  the  ancient  work 
of  the  Order — they  ascertained  that  the  administering  of  oaths  is 
of  recent  origin ;  that  formerly  the  candidate  pledged  his  honor 
to  perform  what  was  enjoined  on  him ;  this  is,  to  most  men,  as 
binding  as  the  most  solemn  form  of  oath.  Your  committee,  there- 
fore, recommend  the  following :  Resolved,  That  so  long  as  the 
law  of  Massachusetts,  relating  to  illegal  oaths,  &c.,  remains  in 
force,  the  lodges  in  Massachusetts  be  authorized  to  admit  mem- 
bers, confer  degrees,  install  officers,  &c.,  on  the  pledge  of  honor, 
and  that  the  oath  be  dispensed  with."  This  was  found  so  accept- 
able that  in  the  revision  of  1835  oaths  were  abolished,  and  the 
present  parole  of  honor  was  adopted. 

We  here  close  this  interesting  subject  by  referring  the  reader 
to  the  last  chapter  of  this  history  for  our  theory  of  the  degrees, 
and  their  profound  significance. 


CHAPTER    XIV. 

ODD   FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS. 

Then  let  \is  throw  all  care  aside, 

Let's  merry  too  and  mellow ; 
May  Friendship,  Love  and  Truth  abide 

With  every  true  Odd  Fellow. 

—ODD  FELLOW'S  SONG. 

There  seems  to  have  been  a  general  emigration  of  Odd  Fel- 
lows to  this  country  in  the  beginning  of  the  century ;  to  be  surer 
their  number  was  small,  and,  in  many  cases,  was  confined  to  a 
single  individual.  They  were  men  of  humble  origin,  and  for 
the  most  part  were  expert  mechanics  and  worked  at  a  trade. 
Their  settlements  were  in  the  seaport  cities,  to  which  they  had 
been  attracted  by  the  hope  of  bettering  their  condition.  Odd 
Fellowship  had  nothing  to  do  with  their  emigration,  but  they 
had  severally  been  in  some  way  connected  with  an  independent 
lodge  in  England,  and  were  invested  with  the  then  known  secret 
work  by  which  such  lodges  had  been  attempting  to  illustrate  and 
enforce  the  lesson  of  fraternity.  They  were  strangers  in  a  strange 
land,  fighting  for  existence  and  seeking  to  form  new  associations. 
Under  such  circumstances  they  naturally  missed  the  life  they 
had  left  behind  them,  and  when  they  met  as  fellow-countrymen, 
recounted  with  regret  the  good  time  they  had  spent  in  the  com- 
fortable inns  and  ale-houses  of  the  mother  country.  The  Order 
of  Odd  Fellowship  was  of  all  others  the  most  prized,  as  having 
been  the  source  of  both  social  pleasure  and  pecuniary  benefit ;  it 
was  composed  of  men  of  their  own  class,  and  claimed  to  be 
formed  for  the  purpose  of  aiding  sons  of  toil,  and  binding  them 
closely  together  for  the  common  advantage.  When  such  men 
recognized  each  other  by  the  rude  formula  of  that  period  as 
members  of  the  Order,  they  at  once  were  led  to  revive  such 
pleasant  intercourse,  and  for  that  purpose  to  plant  the  institution 
in  American  soil.  Boston,  that  great  entrepot  of  commerce,  was 
one  of  the  points  so  visited,  and  the  results  that  followed  will 
compose  the  materials  of  this  chapter. 

(335) 


•336  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

JAMES    B.    BARNES. 

James  B.  Barnes  came  to  this  country  in  the  same  year  with 
Wildey,  1817.  He  was  born  in  Plymouth,  England,  in  Feb- 
ruary, 1792,  of  parents  of  the  middle  class,  who  were  in  moderate 
circumstances.  When  he  was  a  young  Child  his  father  removed 
to  Portsmouth.  But  his  education  was  not  neglected ;  such 
ordinary  schools  as  were  accessible  furnished  him  with  a  good 
education  in  the  rudiments,  which  was  improved  by  a  fondness 
for  books  and  study,  which  was  a  marked  trait  in  his  character. 
In  this  way  he  became  an  apt  scholar,  and  in  course  of  time  was 
a  proficient  in  many  branches  of  knowledge.  His  first  employ- 
ment was  in  the  dockyard  at  Plymouth.  The  custom  of  the 
country  required  that  a  boy  of  his  station  should  be  apprenticed 
at  an  early  age  to  learn  a  mechanical  trade.  Young  Barnes 
evinced  a  great  fondness  for  works  on  mechanics,  and  he  was 
accordingly  put  to  the  trade  of  what  was  then  called  a  "  white 
smith."  Among  his  companions  he  found  many  who  were  Odd 
Fellows,  and  as  soon  as  he  came  of  age  (in  1813)  he  was  admitted 
and  made  a  member  in  a  lodge  originally  organized  under  what 
was  called  "the  Bolton  Unity."  In  1814  he  removed  to  London, 
and  took  membership  in  an  independent  organization  known  as 
•"the  Eoyal  Charlotte  Lodge." 

Barnes  was  a  good  type  of  the  reading  and  thinking  working- 
man,  and  was  full  of  theories  for  the  elevation  of  his  class.  The 
institution  in  its  rough  outlines  seemed  to  him  a  powerful  ally  to 
the  laboring  poor,  and  he  was  soon  active  and  zealous  in  the 
duties  of  his  lodge.  He  became  prominent,  and  by  successive 
steps  rapidly  rose  to  the  place  of  presiding  officer.  This  was  a 
great  compliment  to  a  man  from  a  provincial  city,  and  indicated 
the  meritorious  nature  of  his  services.  In  fact,  his  term  of  N. 
<r.  was  looked  upon  as  a  great  success,  and  on  his  retirement 
from  that  chair,  in  1814,  he  was  presented  with  a  beautiful 
jewel,  the  badge  of  his  rank  as  Past  Grand.  A  letter  of 
thanks  was  granted  at  the  same  time  in  the  shape  of  a  diploma, 
in  which  his  brethren  recorded  in  glowing  terms  their  unani- 
mous estimate  of  his  worth  and  services.  The  jevel  was 
a  silver  medal  of  an  oval  form,  exquisite  in  workmanship, 
and  ornamented  with  appropriate  designs.  Around  the  border 
is  this  inscription :  "  ROYAL  INDEPENDENT  CHARLOTTE  LODGE, 


JAMES  B.  BARNES. 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  337 

ODD  FELLOWS,"  enclosing  two  male  human  figures  on  opposite 
sides,  leaning  upon  an  elevated  shield,  highly  decorated,  the 
whole  surmounted  by  a  lifted  curtain  or  canopy.  On  the  obverse 
side  are  the  words:  "P.  N.  G.  BARNES,  25th  December,  1815." 
Bro.  W.  P.  McKelvey,  to  whom  we  are  greatly  indebted  in  this 
connection,  thus  describes  it :  "  The  pictorial  emblems  on  the 
English  medal  are  in  oil  colors  on  ivory.  The  device  is  a  shield 
containing  many  emblems  of  the  Order,  with  two  figures  on 
either  side  representing  mechanics  in  the  style  of  dress  worn  in 
1815.  On  the  back  of  the  medal  is  a  small  casket  containing 
some  of  the  hair  of  the  deceased." 

Before  this  time  he  married,  and  three  daughters  were  born 
to  him  in  London,  where  he  was  endeavoring  to  gain  a  permanent 
foothold.  But  his  efforts  were  not  rewarded,  and  he  began  to 
turn  his  attention  to  a  more  suitable  place;  after  much  consider- 
ation he  concluded  to  emigrate,  and  seek  in  this  country  that 
success  which  he  could  not  find  in  England.  He  landed  in 
Boston  in  1817,  and  found  no  difficulty  in  procuring  employment 
at  his  trade.  At  the  end  of  a  year  he  entered  a  glass  factory, 
arid  soon  became  expert  in  making  clay  pots  for  smelting  glass, 
and  invented  a  process  for  manufacturing  bricks  for  glass  furnaces. 
Early  in  1821  he  entered  the  service  of  the  New  England  Glass 
Company,  located  at  East  Cambridge,  as  a  master  workman,  and 
held  the  position  until  February  1845.  In  the  winter  of  that 
year,  he  and  a  fellow-workman  moved  to  Wheeling,  Virginia, 
and  purchased  an  old  established  glass  factory  in  that  city.  They 
carried  on  the  business  until  January  8,  1849,  at  which  time 
Brother  Barnes  died,  leaving  a  widow  and  six  children.  His  son, 
James  F.  Barnes,  was  born  in  this  country  in  1818,  and  is  now  a 
merchant  in  Wheeling. 

The  son  was  initiated  into  the  Order  in  1845,  on  the  eve  of 
the  departure  of  the  family  from  Massachusetts,  but  did  not  con- 
tinue a  member.  He  has  furnished  us  with  photographs  of  his 
father's  medals,  which,  for  artistic  finish  and  coloring  and  appa- 
rent fidelity  to  the  originals,  are  beyond  praise.  He  succeeded 
his  father  in  business,  but  is  now  engaged  in  the  queensware  trade. 
The  family  left  by  Bro.  Barnes  is  numerous,  and  are  all  in  good 
circumstances.  They  are  scattered  over  the  country,  some  resid- 
ing in  New  Orleans,  some  in  Massachusetts,  and  others  in  West 
Virginia.  In  a  letter  of  April  4th,  1878,  James  F.  Barnes  says, 
22 


333  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

with  honest  pride :  "  My  father  was  an  able  man,  a  first-rate 
mechanic,  and  above  all,  an  honest  man  in  every  sense  of  the 
word."  We  are  indebted  to  him  for  the  plates  with  which  we 
have  produced  the  fine  medals  of  his  father,  which  are  kept  by 
him  as  sacred  mementos  of  that  father's  eminent  services  in  the 
cause  of  humanity. 

But  let  us  return  to  the  part  assumed  by  Bro.  Barnes  in  tile- 
organization  of  a  form  of  Odd  Fellowship  in  Boston,  which  finally 
became  the  starting  point  of  a  connection  with  the  Order  estab- 
lished in  this  country  by  Thomas  Wildey.  Immediately  after 
his  arrival  in  that  city  he  began  to  inquire  diligently  for  other 
Odd  Fellows.  His  plan  was  to  go  on  board  of  passenger  ships 
from  England,  and  to  visit  the  taverns  and  other  public  places  in 
the  hope  of  meeting  some  of  the  brethren ;  but  his  efforts  in  these 
directions  were  of  no  avail.  In  the  autumn  of  1818  he  was  more 
successful ;  for  in  passing  up  State  Street  he  met  one  "Wilson,  the 
town  crier,  wrho,  in  his  usual  manner,  was  announcing  the  sale  of 
a  cargo  of  fruit  at  public  auction  on  the  next  day.  A  crowd  sur- 
rounded the  crier,  and  from  some  passages  of  rough  wit  between 
them,  Barnes  began  to  think  he  had  discovered  an  Odd  Fellow, 
He  therefore  followed  Wilson,  and  was  informed  by  him  that  his 
surmise  wTas  correct.  Wilson  also  invited  him  to  his  ale-house,, 
No.  23  Cornhill,  where  he  went  on  the  same  evening  and  met 
several  English  Odd  Fellows.  These  were  Jacob  Myers,  Thomas 
Kennedy  and  H.  D.  Fregere.  Of  these  Myers  was  of  Jewish 
parentage  and  kept  a  clothing  store  on  Fleet  Street,  afterwards- 
Ann  Street;  he  came  to  the  country  in  1818.  Fregere  had  em- 
igrated with  his  father's  family  to  Montreal,  Canada,  in  1816, 
and  was  in  Boston  seeking  employment.  Nothing  is  known  of  the 
antecedents  of  Kennedy,  except  that  he  came  over  in  the  same 
ship  with  Fregere. 

It  seems  that  no  steps  were  taken  to  form  a  lodge,  as 
these  new  acquaintances  were  well  pleased  to  meet  and  pass 
social  evenings  together,  with  no  intention  beyond  that  of  present 
enjoyment.  This  continued  so  long  as  to  give  rise  to  the  report 
that  a  lodge  was  in  operation  under  their  auspices  in  the  latter 
part  of  1819.  But  the  tradition,  while  claiming  a  lodge  existence, 
speaks  only  of  informal  meetings,  without  officers,  and  that  no 
minutes  were  kept  until  the  formal  organization,  which  occurred 
on  the  26th  of  March,  1820.  It  seems  that  by-laws  were  in 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  339 

readiness,  an  indication  of  previous  preparation  which  could 
only  have  existed  for  a  brief  period.  It  was  also  asserted  that 
they  had  the  work  of  the  Manchester  Unity,  though  claiming  no 
connection  with  that  Order.  This  may  have  gained  circulation 
from  the  probability  that  one  or  more  of  the  members  came  from 
the  west  of  England  and  knew  something  of  the  changes  made  in 
the  work.  The  master-spirit,  Brother  Barnes,  was  from  London, 
and  was  hostile  to  the  provincial  innovations  which  gave  birth  to 
the  Unity.  Early  in  1820  they  found  another  brother  in  James 
B.  Eaton,  and  were  in  point  of  numbers  ready  for  the  first  time 
to  open  a  lodge ;  for,  as  before  stated,  five  was  the  least  number 
which  by  "  ancient "  and  invariable  "  usage  "  could  form  an  Odd 
Fellows'  lodge. 

It  was  at  Eaton's  house  on  Federal  Street  that  the  brothers 
met  in  conformity  to  a  resolution  passed  at  an  informal  meeting, 
held  on  the  20th  day  of  March,  1820,  and  then  and  there  opened 
a  lodge.  The  process  of  course  was  by  self-institution.  The 
first  officers  were,  James  B.  Barnes,  Noble  Grand ;  H.  D.  Fre- 
gere,  Vice  Grand ;  Jacob  Myers,  Warden,  and  Thomas  Kennedy, 
Secretary;  and  the  name  assumed  was  that  of  Massachusetts 
Lodge,  No.  1.  Its  numbers  began  at  once  to  increase,  and  with 
them  arose  the  necessity  for  a  removal ;  other  removals  followed, 
until  a  more  permanent  location  was  found  in  the  old  Masonic 
Hall  near  the  head  of  Ann  Street.  It  was  at  the  house  of  Bro. 
Humber  in  Ann  Street,  in  1821,  that  Daniel  Hersey  was  initiated  ; 
this  brother  was  the  first  member  of  American  birth,  and  fills  a 
large  space  upon  the  record.  Owing  to  the  fact  that  no  record 
was  kept  for  the  year  1821,  we  find  his  name  for  the  first  time 
on  March  29,  1822,  when  he  wras  unanimously  elected  Noble 
Grand.  It  appears  that  the  funds  of  the  lodge  on  the  2d  day  of 
April,  1822,  amounted  to  the  sum  of  $103,  which  in  the  next 
year  increased  to  $441.70. 

Massachusetts  Lodge,  No.  1,  was  thus  on  the  road  to  prosper- 
ity, when  on  the  4th  day  of  March,  1823,  leave  was  granted  to  cer- 
tain of  its  members  to  form  another  body,  styled  Siloam  Lodge 
of  Independent  Odd  Fellows.  The  lodge  was  instituted  on  the 
llth  day  of  March,  1823  ;  the  officers  having  been  elected  at  an 
informal  meeting  held  on  the  6th  day  of  the  same  month.  Mas- 
sachusetts Lodge  met  on  the  occasion,  and  by  its  Noble  Grand 
installed  Daniel  Hersey,  Noble  Grand,  who  immediately  assumed 


340  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

the  chair  and  installed  his  associates  as  follows :  James  B.  Barnes, 
Vice  Grand;  Charles  Mountfort,  Treasurer;  Edmund  Badger, 
Secretary ;  Henry  Fowle,  Warden ;  John  C.  Bradler,  Guardian. 
The  whole  number  composing  the  new  lodge  was  twelve,  and 
included  the  two  leading  spirits,  Barnes  and  Hersey. 

But  the  most  important  event  in  the  history  of  the  young 
lodges  was  the  receipt  of  a  letter  dated  February,  1822,  from  the 
G.  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States,  with  reference 
to  the  opening  of  a  lodge  of  Odd  Fellows  in  Boston  under  its 
authority.  This  was  probably  the  first  positive  information 
which  the  Massachusetts  Odd  Fellows  had  received  that  they 
were  not  alone  in  the  United  States,  and  that  they  had  perhaps 
been  forestalled  by  brethren  in  Maryland  in  planting  the  Order  in 
this  country. 

Before  narrating  the  incidents  attending  the  introduction  of 
the  Order  into  Massachusetts  in  a  legal  manner,  by  the  regularly 
chartered  authorities,  we  propose  to  mention  several  matters 
which  seem  necessary,  in  justice  to  the  New  England  Odd  Fel- 
lows. Bro.  Barnes,  the  first  leader,  was  undoubtedly  a  man  of 
enterprise,  and  was  worthy  of  all  the  honors  which  were  awarded 
to  him.  He  was  always  foremost  in  activity,  and  was  untiring  in 
his  efforts  to  extend  the  benefits  of  the  Order.  We  have  seen  that 
he  and  Hersey  led  the  band  of  twelve  which  withdrew  to  forin 
Siloam  Lodge,  of  which  he  was  the  first  Vice  Grand.  He  after- 
wards assisted  in  forming  New  England  Lodge,  No.  4,  at  East 
Cambridge, 'to  which  place  he  had  removed  his  residence.  Here 
he  performed  faithful  labor,  and  never  ceased  to  be  full  of  zeal 
through  all  the  struggles  which  terminated  in  the  disastrous  over- 
throw of  his  entire  jurisdiction  in  1832.  The  Anti-Masons 
indeed  had  seized  upon  the  legislative  power  and  prostrated  the 
cause  for  the  time,  but  he  never  despaired,  and  lived  to  see  the 
persecuted  Order  triumph  over  all  its  enemies. 

At  his  departure  for  Wheeling,  his  brethren  manifested  their 
respect  and  affection  for  him  by  many  tokens.  They  presented 
him  with  a  medal  in  open  lodge,  with  all  due  ceremony,  and 
in  an  informal  manner,  at  Porter's  hotel  in  Cambridge,  gave 
him  the  parting  hand  and  many  wishes  for  his  prosperity.  The 
medal  was  properly  inscribed,  to  indicate  the  nature  of  the  compli- 
ment intended.  On  one  side  it  read  :  "  I.  O.  O.  F.  Presented  by 
the  members  of  New  England  Lodge,  No.  4,  to  P.  G.  Bro.  James 


ODD   FELLOWSHIP    IN   MASSACHUSETTS.  341 

B.  Barnes,  the  founder  of  Odd  Fellowship  in  Massachusetts,  as  a 
testimony  of  their  high  estimation  of  his  services  as  an  Odd  Fel- 
low, and  of  his  integrity  and  usefulness  as  a  man."  On  the 
reverse,  "  In  God  we  trust.  Odd  Fellowship  established  in 
Massachusetts,  March  26th,  1820.  This  medal  presented  to  its 
founder,  March  26th,  1845.  Friendship,  Love  and  Truth."  We 
have  been  furnished  with  two  cards  granted  him  by  New  Eng- 
land Lodge,  No.  4.  The  first  is  in  due  form,  dated  March  1st, 
1845  ;  on  its  back  appears  the  following : 

BOSTON,  April  1st,  1845. 
To  the  Fraternity  of  Odd  Fellows  : 

We  commend  to  your  kind  attention  our  honored  and  beloved 
brother,  James  B.  Barnes,  the  founder  of  Odd  Fellowship  in  the 
State  of  Massachusetts.  The  brethren  of  the  Order  may  rely 
upon  him  as  a  man  of  honor,  integrity  and  usefulness,  and  as  pos- 
sessing an  enviable  reputation  in  the  Order  and  in  the  commu- 
nity. 

THOMAS  F.  NORRIS, 

M.  W.  G.  Master  R.  W.  G.  Lodge  of  Mass. 
WM.  E.  PARMENTER, 

Grand  Secretary  R.  W.  G.  Lodge  of  Mass. 

This  did  not  sever  his  connection  with  the  lodge ;  at  all  events 
he  was  a  member  in  1848,  for  we  have  his  visiting  card  of  the  same 
lodge  for  one  year,  dated  14th  April,  1848,  signed  by  John  Hamilton 
Leighton,  N.  G.,  and  Jas.  Wallace,  Secretary.  In  fact,  he  never 
severed  his  connection  with  his  lodge.  When  he  died,  the  Order 
in  Wheeling  furnished  an  escort  for  his  body  on  its  way  to  Mas- 
sachusetts. He  loved  that  section,  and  wished  to  lie  in  the  soil 
where  he  had  planted  Odd  Fellowship.  In  due  time  his 
remains  reached  his  friends  in  New  England.  His  Lodge  had 
notice,  and  met  to  prepare  to  receive  the  body  of  the  great  Odd 
Fellow.  The  members  came  forth  to  do  him  the  last  service,  and 
with  solemn  ceremonies  laid  him  in  the  earth.  And  thus  the  fra- 
ternal emigrant,  who  brought  over  from  England  so  large  a  stock 
of  energy  and  manly  virtue,  returned,  never  again  to  leave  the 
scenes  of  his  early  trials  and  triumphs.  He  never  fell ;  he  never 
faltered  ;  but  was  faithful  to  the  last.  His  adopted  country  had 
recognized  his  worth  and  paid  him  honor ;  and  to-day,  in  that 
land  of  Athenian  culture,  in  that  old  mother  of  States,  Ma?- 


342  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

sachusetts,  and  in  all  her  fair  sisters  on  the  eastern  seaboard,  he 
is  held  in  memory  as  the  Father  of  New  England  Odd  Fellow- 
ship. 

The  following  was  enacted  at  a  meeting  of  Massachusetts 
Lodge,  No.  1,  held  on  the  22d  July,  1822:  "  Kesolved,  That  the 
Secretary  be  directed  to  write  to  the  lodge  of  Odd  Fellows  in 
Providence,  congratulating  them  on  opening  a  new  lodge."  We 
have  the  authority  of  P.  G.  M.  James  Wood,  the  great  Odd  Fel- 
low of  that  State,  that  prior  to  1820  there  were  three  lodges  of 
the  Order  in  Rhode  Island,  located  at  Providence.  They  were 
only,  in  fact,  convivial  gatherings,  and  were  in  no  sense  lodges. 

But  we  return  to  the  letter  of  February,  1822,  from  the  Odd 
Fellows  of  Baltimore.  No  reply  was  made  to  the  communication ; 
but  during  the  year  brother  James  Wilson,  of  Massachusetts 
Lodge,  sailed  for  Baltimore  in  a  packet  ship,  and  took  with  him 
letters  of  recommendation  to  such  Odd  Fellows  as  he  might  find 
in  that  city.  He  was  cordially  received  by  the  brethren,  and  on 
his  return  to  Boston,  carried  with  him  full  information  of  the 
history  and  position  of  Washington  Lodge.  We  have  narrated 
elsewhere  the  story  of  the  visit  of  this  brother  to  Baltimore,  his 
reception  by  Wildey  and  his  followers,  and  the  application  that 
followed  by  the  Boston  brethren.  The  report  of  Wilson  was 
eminently  satisfactory.  The  facts  presented  were  such  as  to 
magnify  the  importance  of  the  movement  in  Baltimore.  No 
member  in  Boston,  before  that  time,  knew  anything  of  a  change- 
able password,  of  lodge  warrants,  lectures  or  degrees,  and  this 
was  the  first  information  received  on  this  subject.  Even  the 
intelligent  Wilson  did  not  seem  to  understand  the  action  of 
Washington  Lodge  in  its  delegation  of  Grand  Lodge  powers  to 
its  Past  Grands,  although  on  the  ground  and  the  matter  had 
been  fully  explained  to  him.  His  associates  in  Baltimore  were 
members  of  Washington  Lodge,  and,  under  the  influence  of  old 
ideas,  he  looked  to  that  subordinate  alone  as  the  chief  authority. 

The  application  from  the  Boston  brethren  speaks  for  itself; 
they  say :  "  We  are  without  lectures  and  degrees,  and  we  wish 
you  to  state  the  manner  of  application  and  method  of  receiving 
them  here."  The  letter  will  be  found  in  the  Journal,  page  53. 
It  seems  that  Wilson  bore  a  letter  to  his  informal  lodge,  to  which 
a  cordial  reply  was  returned,  recognizing  Washington  Lodge  as 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  and  asking  for  a  charter. 


ODD   FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  343 

The  petition  was  dated  the  28th  day  of  March,  1823,  and  the 
charter  was  granted  on  the  13th  of  April  ensuing ;  and  being 
signed,  sealed  and  colored,  was  placed  in  the  hands  of  Grand 
Master  Wildey,  as  the  messenger  to  the  brethren  in  Massachu- 
setts. Wildej  left  Baltimore  on  the  31st  day  of  May,  1823,  but 
did  not  reach  Boston  until  the  8th  day  of  June  following ;  the 
delay  being  caused  by  stoppages  at  Philadelphia  and  New  York, 
to  confer  with  the  members  of  the  Order  in  these  cities.  The 
charter  had  been  sent  on  in  advance,  accompanied  by  a  fraternal 
letter  from  Washington  Lodge.  On  its  receipt,  Massachusetts 
Lodge  met  on  the  15th  day  of  May,  and  took  the  following 
action :  "  Yoted,  that  the  copy  of  a  charter  received  from  the 
Washington  Lodge,  Baltimore,  be  read.  A  letter  was  also 
read  from  Washington  Lodge.  On  motion,  a  committee  was 
appointed  with  full  powers  to  answer  the  letter ;  the  M.  ]ST.  Grand, 
Secretary  and  Bro.  Gamage  were  appointed  the  committee." 
It  is  very  evident,  from  this  extract  from  the  minutes,  that  no 
idea  prevailed  of  any  power  superior  to  Washington  Lodge,  and 
this  may  be  explained  by  the  fact  that,  after  all,  the  Past  Grands 
of  that  lodge  were  the  rulers  of  the  Order. 

The  arrival  of  G.  M.  Wildey  was  an  event  of  more  than  ordi- 
nary importance.  Noble  Grand  Hersey,  of  Siloam  Lodge,  met 
him,  and  after  many  courtesies,  escorted  hirn  to  the  hall  in  Ann 
Street,  where  Massachusetts  and  Siloam  Lodges  held  their  meet- 
ings. Massachusetts  Lodge  was  in  session,  and  William  Bishop, 
the  K  G.,  occupied  the  chair.  As  soon  as  the  lodge  was  opened 
.a  committee,  consisting  of  Brothers  Eaton  and  Johns,  were  ap- 
pointed to  introduce  the  visitor;  they  immediately  retired  and 
-ushered  in  the  ambassador  from  Maryland,  who  was  warmly 
received  and  most  earnestly  welcomed  by  the K  G.  and  brethren 
G.  M.  Wildey  desired  the  N.  G.  to  call  a  special  meeting,  to  be 
convened  on  Monday  evening  following,  when  he  would  make  a 
formal  presentation  of  the  charter.  The  special  meeting  was 
ordered,  and  Siloam  Lodge  was  invited  to  be  present.  On  the 
evening  of  Monday,  the  9th  of  June,  1823,  Massachusetts  Lodge 
opened  in  due  form;  G.  M.  Wildey  took  the  chair  and  admin- 
istered the  obligation  to  the  assembled  members,  and  handed  over 
the  charter  to  them,  in  the  name  and  by  the  authority  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States.  The  origi- 
nal paper  is  lost,  but  the  following  is  a  true  copy  • 


AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

CHARTER  OF  MASSACHUSETTS  LODGE,  No.  1. 

ORDER  OF  INDEPENDENT  ODD  FELLOWS. 

To  all  whom  it  may  concern,  these  presents  come  greeting : 
Know  ye  that  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United 
States  doth  hereby  grant  this  warrant  or  dispensation,  on  the 
application  of  a  number  of  brothers  of  the  Order  of  Independent 
Odd  Fellows  residing  in  Boston,  in  the  State  of  Massachusetts, 
to  establish  a  lodge  to  be  hailed  by  the  title  of  Massachusetts 
Lodge,  No.  1,  to  be  held  in  Boston,  for  the  encouragement  and 
support  of  brothers  of  the  said  Order  when  on  travel  or  other- 
wise. And  the  said  Massachusetts  Lodge,  No.  1,  being  duly 
formed,  is  hereby  authorized  and  empowered  to  initiate  into  the 
mysteries  of  the  said  Order,  any  person  or  persons  duly  proposed 
and  approved  according  to  the  laws  of  Odd  Fellowship ;  and  to 
administer  to  true  brothers  all  the  privileges  and  benefits  arising 
therefrom  ;  and  to  enact  by-laws  for  the  government  of  their 
lodge :  Provided,  always,  that  the  said  Massachusetts  Lodge, 
No.  1,  in  Boston,  do  act  according  to  the  Order,  and  in  conjunc- 
tion with  and  obedience  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  adhereing  to  and 
supporting  the  Articles,  Charges  and  Degrees,  delivered  with 
this  Dispensation ;  and  that  the  said  Massachusetts  Lodge,  No. 
1.  shall  not  be  removed  from  the  place  where  it  is  now  held, 
without  the  consent  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  In  default  thereof  this 
Warrant  or  Dispensation  may  be  suspended,  or  taken  away,  at 
the  decision  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  And  further:  the  Grand 
Lodge  (in  consideration  of  the  due  performance  of  the  above)  do 
bind  themselves  to  repair  all  damages  or  destruction  of  the  Dis- 
pensation, Charges  and  Degrees,  whether  by  fire  or  other  acci- 
dent ;  provided  sufficient  proof  be  given  that  there  is  no  illegal 
concealment  or  wilful  destruction  of  the  same.  And  the  Grand 
Lodge  will  support  the  Massachusetts  Lodge,  No.  1,  in  the  exer- 
cise of  their  duty  and  in  the  privileges  and  honors  of  the  Order. 
In  witness  whereof,  we  have  displayed  the  colors  of  our  Order,, 
subscribed  our  names,  and  affixed  the  seal  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Maryland  and  of  the  United  States,  this  twenty-second  day  of 
May,  A.  D.  one  thousand  eight  hundred  and  twenty-three. 

THOMAS  WILDEY,  M.  W.  Grand  Master. 

JOHN  WELCH,  R.  W.  D.  G.  Master. 
r          -,  THOMAS  MITCHELL,  R.  W.  G.  Warden. 

JOHN  P.  ENTWISLE,  R.  W.  G.  Secretary. 

JOHN  BOYD,  W.  G.  GUARDIAN. 

WILLIAM  LARKAM,  W.  G.  Conductor. 

Past  Grands. 

DUNCAN  McCoRMiCK,  THOMAS  SCOTCHBURN, 

JAMES  SEED,  WILLIAM  WILLIAMS, 

JOHN  NELSON,  WILLIAM  ANSTICE, 

WILLIAM  TONG. 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  345 

This  paper  having  been  read,  G.  M.  Wildey  declared  the 
lodge  to  be  legally  constituted  under  the  name  of  Massachusetts 
Lodge,  No.  1.  He  also  stated  that  he  was  clothed  with  authority 
to  open  a  Grand  Lodge  for  the  State  of  Massachusetts ;  and  he 
desired  the  P.  Grands  of  the  two  lodges  to  assemble  on  Wednes- 
day evening,  June  11,  1823,  to  enable  him  to  perform  that  duty. 
Whereupon,  it  was  "  Kesolved,  that  the  Past  Grands  be  notified 
to  attend  the  forming  of  a  Grand  Lodge,  and  that  the  members 
of  Siloam  Lodge  be  cordially  invited  to  attend."  It  was  also 
"Kesolved,  that  notice  of  the  Dispensation  to  Massachusetts 
Lodge  be  put  in  the  public  prints."  At  a  special  meeting  of  the 
lodge,  held  on  June  13th,  provision  was  made,  by  the  aid  of 
Siloam  Lodge,  to  pay  eighty-six  dollars  on  account  of  the  expenses 
of  the  G.  Master.  The  P.  Grands  having  assembled  as  had  been 
requested,  Grand  Master  Wildey  read  the  charter  and  organized 
them  into  a  Grand  Lodge. 

The  addresses  of  the  founder,  at  the  opening  of  these  lodges, 
must  have  been  quite  emotional.  He  was  now  in  the  bosom  of 
a  family  of  brethren,  after  a  long  and  protracted  journey  from 
his  home.  He  was  presiding  at  the  baptism  of  the  first-born  to 
his  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States ;  the  soil 
was  historical,  and  the  centre  of  refinement  and  intelligence  ;  the 
people  second  to  none  in  any  country,  and  the  city  the  acknow- 
ledged head  of  the  New  England  States.  No  doubt  he  dwelt  com- 
placently upon  these  topics,  and  felt  greater  pride  in  this  accession 
than  when,  in  after  years,  he  saw  the  whole  country  rising  to- 
receive  his  institution.  In  this  case,  as  in  all  others  of  early 
organization,  the  condition  of  things  was,  in  many  regards,  con- 
fused and  irregular.  Massachusetts  Lodge  was  not  only  the  first 
lodge  in  Boston,  but  was  the  only  lodge  considered  in  forming- 
the  tie  with  the  Order  in  Baltimore.  Siloam  Lodge  was  the  cre- 
ation of  Massachusetts  Lodge,  and  although  consisting  of  its  best 
members,  seemed  scarcely  to  have  a  separate  existence  from  its 
parent.  Having  been  instituted  on  the  llth  day  of  March,  1S23, 
but  three  months  previously,  no  time  had  been  permitted  for  a 
proper  organization  of  its  lodge  functions.  Its  P.  Grands  had 
passed  the  chairs  in  Massachusetts  Lodge,  and  although  invited 
as  Siloam  Lodge  members  to  unite  to  form  a  G.  Lodge,  did  not 
acquire  any  right  to  do  so  by  reason  of  their  new  relations.  Nor 
was  Siloam  Lodge  officially  included  in  the  new  arrangement 


346  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Tin  til  the  2d  day  of  December,  1823,  six  months  afterwards,  when 
upon  petition,  a  legal  charter  was  granted  by  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Massachusetts  to  Siloam  Lodge,  No.  2.  In  the  meantime  the 
two  lodges  acted  in  a  manner  to  indicate  that  they  believed 
themselves  to  occupy  an  equal  position  towards  the  G.  Lodge  and 
towards  each  other.  Nor  did  Massachusetts  Lodge  take  a  new 
charter  from  its  G.  Lodge,  but  continued  to  act  under  its  original 
.authority  from  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.  No  peti- 
tion of  five  P.  Grands  had  asked  for  a  Grand  Charter,  and  there- 
fore no  charter  members  appear  in  that  instrument.  These  omis- 
.sions,  which  were  elsewhere  strictly  insisted  upon,  in  the  cases  of 
New  York  and  Pennsylvania,  indicate  the  anxious  haste  of  the 
Baltimore  brethren  to  win  those  of  Boston  to  the  newly  consti- 
tuted Order  in  the  former  city. 

Before  setting  forth  the  early  history  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Massachusetts,  we  shall  briefly  narrate  the  story  of  the  two  origi- 
nal lodges  of  that  jurisdiction. 

MASSACHUSETTS    LODGE,  NO.  1. 

Having  shown  how  the  tie  was  legally  formed  between  the 
Wildey  organization  and  Massachusetts  Lodge,  we  now  proceed 
to  relate  the  other  most  important  events  in  its  history.  Joseph 
Batson  was,  in  the  early  part  of  the  year  1822,  the  favorite  of  the 
lodge  ;  for  services  of  merely  nominal  value  he  had  two  medals  offi- 
cially conferred  upon  him.  But  these  favors  turned  his  head,  and 
his  subsequent  conduct  was  so  very  troublesome  and  ridiculous  as 
to  render  him  justly  odious  to  his  former  admirers.  It  is  said  that 
he  divulged  the  secrets  to  the  uninitiated,  persisted  in  wearing 
regalia  to  which  he  was  not  entitled,  and  having  obtained  posses- 
sion of  the  ritual  of  the  then  second  and  third  degrees,  in  use  in 
the  lodge,  refused  to  deliver  them  up,  and  in  this  way  prevented 
the  degrees  from  being  conferred.  On  October  18th,  1822,  a  com- 
mittee to  investigate  these  matters  was  appointed  ;  this  and  other 
like  committees  continued  to  act,  with  no  apparent  result,  until  the 
28th  of  April,  1823,  when  Batson  was  prohibited  from  wearing 
certain  regalia,  and  on  May  23d  ensuing  he  was  unanimously 
expelled.  This  action  was  published  in  the  newspapers,  and  no- 
tice was  also  sent  to  Siloam  Lodge  and  to  Washington  Lodge,  Bal- 
timore. Batson,  it  seems,  found  his  way  to  Baltimore,  and  was 
well  treated  by  the  brethren  there ;  this  gave  such  offence  to 
Massachusetts  Lodge  that  it  issued  a  circular,  reflecting  in  severe 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  347 

terms  upon  the  Baltimore  brethren  for  harboring  a  disgraced 
Odd  Fellow.  The  correspondence  to  which  this  gave  rise  will  be 
set  forth  when  we  treat  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Massachusetts. 

The  first  record  of  degrees  having  been  conferred  in  Massa- 
chusetts Lodge,  was  on  the  4th  of  October,  1822,  when  notice 
was  given  that  there  would  be  a  special  meeting  of  the  officers 
for  the  purpose  of  receiving  the  first  and  second  degrees.  On  the 
9th  these  degrees  were  also  conferred  upon  nine  members 
of  the  lodge.  The  so-called  degrees  came  from  New  York,  and 
these  were  the  only  instances  in  which  they  were  conferred.  On 
March  28th,  1823,  as  before  stated,  application  was  made  to  Bal- 
timore for  the  lectures  and  degrees ;  they  were  duly  forwarded, 
but  did  not  arrive  until  October,  1823,  when  the  lawful  degrees 
of  the  Manchester  Unity  were  adopted  in  Massachusetts.  In  this 
month  Siloam  Lodge  was  instituted,  and  was  invited  by  the  par- 
ent lodge  to  become  a  tenant  at  the  hall  in  Ann  Street,  and  on 
May  2d,  1823,  went  in  under  a  sub-lease  for  one  year.  The 
younger  lodge,  on  the  24th  of  June,  applied  for  a  charter  from 
the  G.  Lodge,  which  was  not  granted  until  December  following. 
In  the  meantime,  on  the  26th  of  August,  Siloam  Lodge  conferred 
the  first  of  the  so-called  degrees  upon  ten  of  its  members.  This 
roused  the  anger  of  Massachusetts  Lodge,  which,  on  Monday,  7th, 
by  its  vote,  protested  against  the  degrees  being  given  out  by  Sil- 
oam Lodge  before  it  had  obtained  a  charter  from  the  G.  Lodge. 
This  was  sent  by  letter  to  that  Lodge,  and  was  returned  with 
a  rougli  message,  which  gave  still  greater  offence,  and  the  amity 
before  existing  between  the  lodges  was  temporarily  destroyed. 
But  the  lodges  met  again  in  peace  early  in  1824.  Yet  the  truce 
was  badly  kept  on  both  sides,  and  especially  so  on  the  part  of  the 
senior  lodge.  The  next  disagreement  was  concerning  the  lease 
which  each  held  on  the  hall  in  Ann  Street,  which  was  not  joint, 
as  was  at  first  intended.  Massachusetts  Lodge,  in  fact,  had  a 
lease  from  year  to  year ;  Siloam  Lodge  held  a  sub-lease  from  Mas- 
sachusetts Lodge.  In  obtaining  a  renewal  of  the  sub-lease,  Siloam 
Lodge  appealed  to  the  G.  Lodge  before  the  matter  was  adjusted. 
But  as  soon  as  that  was  settled,  Massachusetts  Lodge  had  a  con- 
troversy with  Mr.  Stetson,  its  landlord,  and  on  the  evening  of  the 
8th  of  November,  1824,  removed  precipitately  from  the  premises. 
This  was  a  sad  blow  to  Siloam  Lodge,  which  had  an  interest  in 
the  property  removed,  and  whose  members  had  no  mind  to  sub- 


348  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

mit  to  such  arbitrary  proceedings.  Its  officers  protested  without 
avail  against  the  measure,  and  finally  seized  upon  two  brass 
lamps  and  a  table,  which  were  in  transit,  and  kept  them  for  the- 
use  of  their  lodge. 

Massachusetts  Lodge  next  met  on  the  12th  of  November, 
1824,  at  the  house  of  Bro.  "William  Johns,  No.  33  Union  Street. 
Here  they  were  met  by  the  officers  of  the  junior  lodge,  but  no 
terms  of  accommodation  were  settled.  On  November  19th  the 
lodge  met  at  Joy's  Building,  when  the  members  refused  to  confer 
with  the  officers  of  Siloam  Lodge,  who  were  again  in  attendance. 
At  length--  Siloam  Lodge  brought  the  matter  before  the  G.  Lodger 
which  summoned  both  lodges  before  it,  and  after  much  difficulty 
the  matter  was  adjusted.  Massachusetts  Lodge  was  now  (Feb- 
ruary, 1825)  badly  demoralized  and  utterly  bankrupt.  After 
leaving  the  hall  on  Ann  Street  the  lodge  was  in  constant  motion  ; 
as  we  have  seen,  it  met  November  12th  at  the  house  of  "William 
Johns,  No.  33  Union  Street,  on  December  3d  at  the  Tontine 
Hotel,  on  December  8th  and  10th  again  at  33  Union  Street,  on 
December  17th  and  24th  at  Tontine  Hall,  on  December  31st  and 
January  7th,  1825,  at  Bro.  William  A.  Rees,  Ann  Street,  on 
February  20th  at  the  Tontine  Coffee  House,  on  February  28th 
again  on  Ann  Street,  and  after  that  again  at  the  Hall  in  Ann 
Street. 

Of  course,  with  the  lodge  "  on  travel,"  it  had  no  increase,  and 
was  growing  weaker  every  day.  But  it  was  not  unmindful  of 
duty,  and  the  members  several  times  subscribed  money  to  assist 
indigent  brethren,  when  there  was  not  a  dollar  in  the  treasury. 
Having  no  work  to  do,  the  meetings  were  taken  up  with  bicker- 
ings and  debates,  that  had  no  result  but  to  make  the  prospect 
still  more  gloomy.  We  have  stated  that  Joseph  Batson  was  ex- 
pelled in  May,  1823,  and  having  wandered  to  Baltimore,  became 
the  cause  of  trouble  between  Massachusetts  Lodge  and  Washington 
Lodge  of  that  city.  Batson  returned  to  Boston,  and  found  ready  as- 
sociates among  the  members  of  his  former  lodge.  Chief  among 
these  was  Secretary  Stacey,  who,  on  being  found  in  the  company  of 
Batson,  was  deposed  from  office.  Bro.  Myers,  another  one  of 
them,  had  a  quarrel  with  the  lodge  about  a  bill,  and  having  be- 
haved indecorously,  was  expelled.  Still  another,  Bro.  Boden,  for 
acting  in  a  disorderly  manner  at  the  expulsion  of  Myers,  was 
himself  expelled.  In  the  last  case,  upon  suitable  siibmission  oa 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  349 

the  part  of  the  brother,  he  was  reinstated.  Soon  afterwards  he 
died,  and  the  contrite  brethren  assisted  his  widow  and  children, 
-and  were  full  of  sympathy  and  grief.  But  the  situation  grew 
.gradually  worse.  On  the  16th  of  May,  1825,  the  finance  com- 
mittee reported  that  there  was  a  balance  due  the  Secretary  of 
seven  dollars  and  thirty-three  cents,  and  that  there  was  in  the 
treasury  the  sum  of  six  dollars  and  thirty-eight  cents. 

On  November  7,  a  committee  was  appointed  to  wait  on  the 
Orand  Lodge  and  remonstrate  against  the  conduct  of  Noble 
•Grand  Carnsel,  in  proposing  to  give  up  the  charter  without  the 
approval  of  the  members,  and  also  to  find  that  officer  and  request 
him  to  hold  lodge  meetings.  He  was  found  on  the  14th  of  No- 
vember, but  refused  to  attend,  for  the  reason  that  he  preferred  the 
theatre  to  going  to  the  lodge.  He  was  then  deposed,  and  Bro. 
James  Yates  was  duly  installed  as  Noble  Grand  on  November 
28,  1825.  In  the  meantime  Carnsel  had  the  charter,  and  a  com- 
mittee was  appointed  to  get  it  out  of  his  possession.  The  charter 
was  obtained,  but  lodge  meetings  were  only  held  about  once  in  a 
month.  In  this  way  was  passed  the  year  1826;  in  1827  and 
1828  there  was  a  spasmodic  appearance  of  vigor  which  was  de- 
ceptive. The  price  of  initiation  was  increased  from  two  to  five 
dollars,  and  the  by-laws  were  amended  to  allow  initiations  in  the 
lodge,  of  brothers  intending  to  hold  their  membership  in  other 
lodges.  Under  this  law  many  were  initiated,  and  the  two  lodges 
held  joint  regular  meetings  on  Sunday  evenings  to  confer  the 
degrees.  At  a  meeting  of  Massachusetts  Lodge,  held  on  Monday 
evening,  July  9,  1827,  Grand  Master  Hersey  read  a  circular  from 
the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  detailing  the  events  of 
Wildey's  visit  to  England,  his  return,  and  the  condition  of  the 
Order  in  both  countries.  But  the  struggle  for  existence  was 
nearly  at  an  end.  At  the  election  for  officers,  in  October,  1827, 
the  whole  number  of  votes  cast  was  six,  and  there  being  no  bus- 
iness on  hand,  the  lodge  adjourned  "  for  refreshment."  On  June 
9th,  1828,  seven  votes  were  cast  on  the  application  of  P.  G. 
Joseph  Lopez,  "  to  become  a  full  member,"  and  it  was  then  voted 
"  that  we  will  hold  the  charter  of  the  lodge,  and  not  give  it  up 
as  long  as  five  members  stand  by  to  hold  it."  The  record  of  the 
last  meeting  reads  as  follows :  "  Sunday,  August  10th,  1828.  At 
a  special  meeting  of  the  lodge,  held  at  Bro.  Thompson's,  for  the 
purpose  of  attending  the  funeral  of  brother  Edward  Magher, 


350  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

voted  that  brother  Thompson  be  a  committee  to  see  him  de- 
cently interred,  and  the  lodge  do  pay  for  the  same  ;  and  that  he 
also  cause  six  feet  of  wood  to  be  sent  to  his  widow.  At  10  o'clock 
closed  in  due  form.  Attest:  EBER  SMITH,  Secretary." 

And  thus  ended  the  recorded  existence  of  Massachusetts 
Lodge,  No.  1.  Five  members  could  not  be  assembled  for  busi- 
ness ;  there  were  no  meetings,  and  all  the  machinery  for  conduct- 
ing a  lodge  \vas  wanting.  No  formal  surrender  of  the  charter  was 
made  until  1832;  but  vitality  had  departed,  and  in  due  time  the 
name  was  officially  dismissed  from  the  list  of  lodges  in  Massa- 
chusetts. 

We  have  received  from  Bro.  Samuel  B.  Krogman,  P.  G.  M., 
the  following :  "  Massachusetts  Lodge  was  reinstated  June  22d, 
1841,  and  has  continued  its  good  work  to  the  present  day. 
Number  of  members  admitted  March  26th,  1820,  to  August 
10th,  1828,  92;  June  22d,  1841,  to  January  1st,  1878,  1039; 
total,  1131.  Withdrew  to  form  other  lodges,  321 ;  members  in 
good  standing  January  1st,  1878,  208;  Past  Grands  since  organ- 
ization, 109;  Past  Grands  remaining  January  1st,  1878,  38^ 
members  elected  Grand  Master,  3,  of  whom  Daniel  Hersey  died. 
The  others,  Joseph  L.  Drew  and  Samuel  B.  Krogman,  remain 
members  of  the  lodge.  Keceipts  from  March  26th,  1820,  to 
August  10th,  1828,  $524.93 ;  June  22d,  1841,  to  January  1st, 
1878,  $64,065.48 ;  total,  $64,590.41.  Paid  for  relief  from  March 
26th,  1820,  to  August  10th,  1828,  $56.00;  June  22d,  1841,  to 
January  1st,  1878,  $32,874.98;  total,  $32,930.98.  Amount  of 
funds  and  property  January  1st,  1878,  $11,563.26." 

SILOAM    LODGE,    NO.  2. 

We  have  before  stated  that  the  leading  spirits  in  the  first 
movement  became  the  original  members  of  Siloam  Lodge,  No.  2. 
It  followed  that  its  meetings  were  more  regular  and  its  member- 
ship more  active  and  efficient  than  those  of  the  parent  lodge. 
Its  original  founders  were  Daniel  Hersey,  James  B.  Barnes, 
Charles  Mountfort,  Edmund  Badger,  Samuel  L.  Knapp,  John 
Minott,  James  Frost,  Abel  Wheelock,  Henry  Fovvle,  John  C. 
Bradley,  William  C.  Jenkins  and  John  Campbell.  The  first 
meeting  of  Siloam  Lodge  occurred,  as  before  stated,  on  the  llth 
of  March,  1823,  when  the  officers  were  duly  installed.  It  was- 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  351 

agreed  that  the  lodge  should  adopt  the  "by-laws,  rules  and  regu- 
lations "  of  Massachusetts  Lodge.  The  first  initiation  took  place 
at  the  next  weekly  meeting. 

Many  members  were  obtained  in  those  early  days,  whose 
names  in  later  years  were  quite  familiar  to  Bostonians,  as  among 
the  most  efficient  laborers  in  the  cause  of  Odd  Fellowship.  Pro- 
minent among  these  was  Doctor  William  Ingalls,  who  was  initi- 
ated in  Siloam  Lodge,  April  15th,  1823,  arid  during  a  somewhat 
protracted  life,  remained  a  firm  friend  of  the  Order.  From  his 
social  position  he  exerted  a  powerful  influence  in  support  of  the 
institution,  and  was  one  of  the  petitioners  in  February,  1842,  to 
have  Siloam  Lodge  reinstated.  When  the  petition  was  granted 
he  took  an  active  part  in  setting  the  lodge  to  work,  becoming  its 
representative  to  the  Grand  Lodge.  In  one  particular  it  took 
front  rank,  and  stood  abreast  with  Columbia  Lodge,  ~No.  3,  of 
Baltimore.  On  January  13th,  1824,  it  was  voted  "that  we  will 
dispense  with  having  any  liquor  brought  into  the  antechamber 
in  future."  This  may  account  for  the  fact  that  its  accessions 
were  numerous,  and  were  drawn  from  the  more  substantial  class 
of  citizens.  We  have  detailed  the  fact  of  its  institution  on  the 
llth  of  March,  1823,  that  it  began  its  meetings  at  the  Hall  in 
Ann  Street  on  May  2d,  and  that  its  charter  was  granted  by  the 
G.  Lodge  of  Massachusetts  on  the  2d  of  December,  1823.  Its 
hospitality  was  illustrated  by  a  collation  provided  at  the  expense 
of  the  lodge,  at  an  installation  on  the  13th  of  July,  1824,  when 
it  was  voted  "  that  Massachusetts  Lodge  be  invited  to  attend  on 
that  evening."  It  was  a  great  matter  in  those  days  "of  small 
things  "  to  appropriate  twelve  dollars  for  this  entertainment.  In 
the  absence  of  financial  system  the  treasury  was  soon  embar- 
rassed, so  that  on  March  7th,  1825,  the  standing  committee 
reported  an  indebtedness  of  two  hundred  and  forty  dollars.  At 
this  time  there  were  seventy  members  who  were  thought  able  to 
contribute,  and  they  were  each  assessed  the  sum  of  one  dollar. 
On  December  27th,  1825,  brothers  Southack,  Barnes,  Conner  and 
Dorr  were  appointed  a  committee  to  petition  the  legislature  for 
an  act  of  incorporation,  but  nothing  came  of  it.  On  January 
5th,  1826,  the  by-laws  were  dispensed  with,  so  as  to  allow  the 
initiation  of  Rev.  Thomas  F.  Norris  and  all  other  clergymen  free 
of  expense.  Bro.  Norris  was  afterwards  regularly  initiated  in 
Massachusetts  Lodge  for  Siloam  Lodge. 


352  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

On  Monday,  January  9,  1826,  the  lodge  had  a  public  instal- 
lation of  its  officers.  The  record  says  :  "  The.  lodge  opened  in  due 
form  in  the  presence  of  a  very  large  and  respectable  company. 
Prayer  by  the  Rev.  Mr.  Dean.  An  elegant  address  was  then 
delivered  by  Bro.  Yates  in  eloquent  and  masterly  style,  for  which 
he  deserves  great  credit.  The  Grand  Master  of  the  State  then 
proceeded  to  install  the  officers  for  the  next  three  months,  and 
deserves  thanks  for  the  style  in  which  he  delivered  his  charge. 
The  whole  concluding  with  a  prayer  by  Rev.  Mr.  Dean,  and  ex- 
ercises by  the  amateurs  of  the  Columbian  Club."  This  was  cer- 
tainly a  good  programme,  and  the  whole  incident  exhibits  the 
superior  morale  which  prevailed  in  this  lodge.  On  the  7th  of 
February  it  was  voted,  "  that  the  6th  of  April  be  dispensed  with 
as  the  day  of  our  anniversary,  and  that  the  22d  of  February  be 
observed  in  its  stead."  Why  a  lodge  born  in  March  and  char- 
tered in  December  should  have  its  anniversary  in  February,  has 
not  been  explained. 

So  far  there  had  been  harmony  among  these  brethren,  but 
dissensions  began  to  arise  which  in  their  effects  were  utterly 
disastrous.  At  the  meeting  held  on  the  7th  of  July  there  was  an 
election,  at  which  Lyam  Gilbert  was  chosen  Noble  Grand.  The 
evening  was  one  memorable  for  the  lodge.  It  wras  voted,  "  that 
Bro.  Robinson  be  fined  five  dollars  for  making  use  of  profane 
and  indecent  language,  disturbing  the  peace  and  harmony  of  the 
lodge,  dissuading  Mr.  McNair  from  being  initiated  in  the  Siloam 
Lodge,  and  violently  opposing,  by  word  and  action,  said  person 
from  becoming  an  Odd  Fellow,  and  disobeying  the  orders  of  the 
Most  Noble  Grand."  The  G.  Master  was  not  present,  and  the 
Warden  proceeded  to  install  the  officers,  who  took  their  seats. 
Grand  Master  Hersey  was  deeply  offended  and  took  measures 
accordingly.  He  attended  the  lodge  meeting  of  July  25,  1826, 
and  at  the  opening  took  the  N.  G.'s  chair,  and  appointed  two 
members  a  committee  to  examine  Bro.  Gilbert  as  to  his  qualifi- 
cations for  the  place.  Bro.  Gilbert  refused  to  submit  to  an  ex- 
amination, and  the  whole  evening  was  spent  in  a  quarrelsome 
debate  between  the  members  and  the  Grand  Master.  Before 
closing,  the  exasperated  members  voted,  unanimously,  "  to  declare 
this  lodge  independent  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts : 
that  we  will  acknowledge  the  members  of  the  same  only  as  equal 
to  our  own  Past  Grands ;  and  that  a  committee  be  appointed  to 


ODD   FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  353 

draft  a  memorial  and  resolutions  explanatory  of  the  same."  A 
committee  consisting  of  Bros.  T.  H.  Bennet,  "Win.  C.  Bazin, 
John  Eaton,  Bro.  Campbell  and  J.  L.  Sargent  was  then  appointed 
to  draft  laws  for  the  government  of  the  lodge. 

But  this  did  not  last  long ;  on  the  29th  of  August  the  G. 
Master  and  his  officers  again  made  their  appearance  and  were 
very  welcome.  He  made  an  able  and  eloquent  speech,  in  which 
he  declared  that  all  the  proceedings  hereinbefore  recited  were 
illegal.  This  was  sanctioned  by  the  lodge  by  a  v.ote  of  eleven  in 
the  affirmative  to  three  in  the  negative.  The  G.  Master  then 
took  the  chair,  and  the  lodge  was  opened  in  due  form  by  his  R.  S. 
Bro.  Badger.  Several  ineffectual  attempts  were  made  to  elect  a 
Noble  Grand,  and  after  a  long  debate,  the  G.  M.  was  requested 
to  occupy  the  chair  during  the  remainder  of  the  term.  The 
lodge  then  proceeded  to  "  Harmony,"  and  was  entertained  with 
a  ditty  from  Brothers  Barnes,  Wheelock  and  Slade,  and  the 
evening  was  passed  very  harmoniously.  The  meetings  were 
held  in  this  informal  way  until  in  April,  1829,  when  a  sale  was 
made  of  the  regalia  and  fixtures.  On  September  28th  Bro.  N. 
Brigham  was  elected  JST.  G.  for  the  second  time ;  seven  members 
were  present.  On  the  evening  of  October  20th,  1829,  the  hall 
was  lighted  up,  but  no  quorum  was  present ;  there  was  some 
random  conversation,  when  the  lights  were  extinguished,  and 
Siloam  Lodge,  No.  2,  was  defunct.  As  in  the  case  of  its  parent 
lodge,  its  charter  was  not  surrendered  until  1832,  when  the  sur- 
viving members  looked  on  in  hope  of  a  resurrection  which  has 
since  been  signally  fulfilled. 

The  lamented  P.  Grand  Sire  Ellison,  from  whose  pages  as 
historiographer  of  Massachusetts  we  have  gleaned  these  inci- 
dents of  early  Odd  Fellowship,  breaks  forth  as  follows :  "  Go 
forth  then,  O  Siloam,  with  thy  historic  and  poetic  name !  Let  thy 
living  waters  attract  the  fainting  and  weary  soul  to  thy  blessed 
fountain,  as  beneath  the  burning  sun  of  Syria  the  poor  and 
friendless  sought  shelter  beside  thy  crystal  spring.  As  the  Naz- 
arene  said  to  the  sightless  wanderer,  <  Go  wash  in  the  pool  of 
Siloam';  as  the  youthful  David  tuned  his  harp  by  thy  healing 
waters,  so  may  thy  virtues  raise  up  the  down-trodden,  open  the 
eyes  of  the  blind  that  they  may  see  earth's  loveliness,  and  utter 
praises  to  Him  beneath  whose  outstretched  arm  all  philanthropic 
efforts  will  ever  find  a  refuge  and  a  support."  This  euphemistic 


354  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

outburst,  so  very  different  from  the  usually  terse  and  practical 
style  of  the  Past  Grand  Sire,  indicates  in  a  quaint  but  most 
striking  manner  his  enthusiastic  feelings  on  the  subject  of  this 
favorite  lodge.  We  here  insert  a  copy  of  what  we  believe  to 
have  been  the  charter  granted  to  this  lodge,  it  being  the  first 
issued  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts. 

CHARTER  OF  SILO  AM  LODGE  No.  2. 

ORDER  OF  INDEPENDENT  ODD  FELLOWS. 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts. 

To  all  whom  it  may  concern  :  Know  ye  that  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  Massachusetts  of  the  Order  of  Independent  Odd  Fellows,  re- 
posing especial  trust  and  confidence  in  a  number  of  brethren  of 
the  Order  of  Independent  Odd  Fellows  residing  in  Boston, 
Suffolk  county,  in  the  State  of  Massachusetts,  doth  hereby  grant 
this  Warrant  to  establish  a  lodge  in  Boston,  to  be  hailed  by  the 
title  of  Siloam  Lodge,  No.  2,  for  the  encouragement  and  support 
of  brothers  of  said  Order  when  on  travel  or  otherwise.  And  the 
said  Lodge  No.  2,  being  duly  formed  and  constituted,  is  hereby 
authorized  and  empowered  to  initiate  into  and  confer  the  several 
degrees  according  to  the  constitution  and  general  laws  as  estab- 
lished by  the  Grand  Lodge,  upon  such  person  or  persons  duly 
proposed  and  lawfully  qualified  to  receive  the  same,  according  to 
the  laws  of  Odd  Fellowship,  and  to  administer  to  true  brothers 
all  the  privileges  and  benefits  arising  from  the  Order.  And  the 
said  Lodge  No.  2  is  hereby  authorized  to  enact  by-laws  for  the 
government  of  said  lodge.  Provided,  always,  that  said  by-laws 
be  in  conformity  to  the  constitution  and  general  laws  of  the 
Grand  Lodge.  And  the  said  Lodge  No.  2  doth  solemnly 
promise  to  act  according  to  the  laws  of  the  Order,  and  in  obedi- 
ence to  the  commands  and  enactments  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  In 
default  whereof,  this  Warrant  may  be  suspended  or  taken  away 
at  the  pleasure  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  In  witness  whereof  we 
have  hereunto  displayed  the  colors  of  the  Order  and  subscribed 
our  names,  and  affixed  the  seal  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachu- 
setts of  the  Order  of  Independent  Odd  Fellows,  this  second  day 
of  December,  one  thousand  eight  hundred  and  twenty-three. 

DANIEL  HERSEY,  Grand  Master. 
r         n  HENRY  SOLOMON,  Deputy  G.  Master.    . 

WILLIAM  BISHOP,  G.  Sec'ty. 

JAMES  B.  BARNES,  G.  Warden. 

On  the  llth  of  December,  1826,  Good  Samaritan  Lodge,  No. 
3,  was  instituted  at  Taunton  by  the  Grand  Officers.     It   was. 


JAMES  WOOD. 


ODD   FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  355 

composed  of  mechanics  and  other  workingmen,  who  were  suc- 
cessful in  building  up  a  substantial  lodge.  Among  the  most 
prominent  of  those  who  were  initiated,  or  joined  by  card,  were 
James  Wood,  Thomas  Barr,  and  George  Ash  worth,  names  that 
became  historical  in  Rhode  Island  and  Massachusetts.  "We 
would  gladly  give  a  large  notice  to  them,  and  especially  to  Bro. 
"Wood,  but  we  are  limited  by  the  very  scant  materials  we  have 
been  able  to  obtain. 

JAMES  WOOD. 

James  Wood  was  born  in  the  town  of  Disney,  England,  in  the 
year  1802,  and  on  reaching  his  majority,  was  initiated  into  a  lodge 
working  under  the  Manchester  Unity.  His  early  life  was  one  of 
toil,  but  he  had  a  taste  for  reading  and  study,  and  became  well 
acquainted  with  the  English  poets.  In  his  mature  years  he  wrote 
a  number  of  verses,  some  of  which  gave  evidence  of  decided  talent 
in  that  way.  When  he  entered  the  lodge,  he  took  such  an  active 
interest  that  he  was  chosen  to  fill  all  the  places  of  responsibility, 
including  that  of  Noble  Grand.  But,  like  many  others  of  his 
class,  he  was  not  satisfied  with  his  business  prospects  in  the  old 
country,  and  turned  his  attention  to  America,  as  a  field  of  better 
promise.  Landing  in  Boston,  in  May,  1827,  he  soon  found  em- 
ployment at  Taunton,  where  he  met  several  of  his  countrymen, 
who  gave  him  a  cordial  greeting.  On  inquiring  for  Odd  Fellows, 
he  found  Good  Samaritan  Lodge,  No.  3,  in  full  operation,  and 
having  applied  for  admission,  was  duly  received  as  a  member. 
Here  he  was  full  of  energy,  and,  having  passed  all  the  chairs,  was 
admitted  a  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts.  By 
his  advice  a  number  of  the  members  of  Good  Samaritan  Lodge, 
residing  at  Cranston,  near  Providence,  Rhode  Island,  were  in- 
duced to  apply  for  the  institution  of  a  lodge  in  that  State.  The 
following  letter  will  show  the  part  he  took  in  this  important 
movement : 

TAUNTON,  April  25th,  1829. 

To  the  M.  W.  Grand  Master  ^  Officers  and  Brethren  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Massachusetts. 

DEAR  BRETHREN: — I  am  deputed  by  the  Good  Samaritan 
Lodge,  Taunton,  to  write  to  you  for  instructions  under  the  fol- 
lowing circumstances :  The  brethren  belonging  to  our  lodge,  resid- 
ing at  Cranston,  near  Providence,  to  the  number  of  ten  or  fifteen, 
have  come  to  the  resolution  of  forming  themselves  into  a  lodge, 


356  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

and  holding  their  meetings  in  Providence,  provided  they  can  ob- 
tain a  charter.  And  to  that  end,  with  our  advice  and  consent, 
they  have  withdrawn  their  names  from  our  books,  and  intend  to 
commence  meeting  immediately  in  some  convenient  place,  to  pre- 
pare themselves  for  future  events.  We  have  promised  to  render 
them  all  the  assistance  in  our  power,  and  to  obtain  for  them  a 
lodge-book,  (for  practicing  lodge  business)  if  possible,  from  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts.  We  wish  to  know  whether  you 
can  grant  them  one  (a  book),  and  what  steps  they  will  have  to 
take  in  order  to  obtain  their  charter.  Whether  you  can  grant 
them  one  as  the  first  lodge  of  the  I.  O.  F.  in  the  State  of  Rhode 
Island,  or  whether  it  must  be  obtained  from  Baltimore.  In  short, 
we  wish  for  all  necessary  information  upon  the  subject,  as  you,  of 
course,  know  the  nature  of  these  things  better  than  we  do.  A 
speedy  answer  will  greatly  oblige  yours  fraternally,  in  bonds  of 
F.  L.  and  T.  In  behalf  of  Good  Samaritan  Lodge. 

JAMES  WOOD,  P.  G. 

Grand  Master  Isaac  T.  Dupee  wrote  a  reply  advising  an  ap- 
plication to  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  In  October, 
1826,  P.  G.  Benjamin  Downing  of  New  York  wrote  to  Balti- 
more, requesting  a  warrant  for  a  lodge  in  Providence,  but  nothing 
came  of  it.  But  at  this  time  Bro.  Wood  prepared  the  necessary 
petition,  and  a  charter  was  granted  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
United  States  in  the  month  of  June,  1829.  The  charter  mem- 
bers were  Henry  Hobson,  Waller  McFarlane,  John  Doran, 
Francis  Chadburn,  James  Bury  and  John  Bowcock,  to  form 
Friendly  Union  Lodge,  No.  1,  to  be  located  at  Providence, 
Ehode  Island.  On  the  20th  of  that  month  the  lodge  was  insti- 
tuted by  Grand  Sire  Wildey,  assisted  by  Rep.  Small,  of  Pennsyl- 
vania. The  G.  Sire  in  his  report  says :  "  After  leaving  Massa- 
chusetts, your  committee  proceeded  to  Providence,  Rhode  Island. 
They  here  opened  Friendly  Union  Lodge,  No.  1,  whose  charter 
had  been  previously  granted.  Their  officers  were  installed  and 
duly  instructed."  On  this  occasion  Bro.  Wood  delivered  an  able 
and  eloquent  address,  which  was  favorably  noticed  by  the  news- 
papers. Subsequently,  his  brethren,  in  consideration  of  his 
valuable  labors  in  planting  the  Order  in  that  State,  gave  him 
the  proud  title  of  "  Father  of  Rhode  Island  Odd  Fellowship." 

In  1834  Bro.  Wood  removed  to  Rhode  Island,  and  was  gladly 
received  into  Friendly  Union  Lodge.  Upon  the  institution  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  Rhode  Island  he  was  elected  its  first  Grand 
Master ;  he  had  also  the  honor  of  being  chosen  the  first  Grand 


THOMAS  BARR. 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  357 

Patriarch  of  that  jurisdiction.  He  also  represented  his  State  in 
the  G.  Lodge  of  the  United  States  in  1846,  1851, 1852, 1864,  and 
1865.  He  continued  in  close  communion  with  Friendly  Union 
Lodge-  until  his  death,  which  occurred  on  the  17th  of  January, 
1867.  Grand  Sire  Wildey  in  one  of  his  reports  says  :  "  On  my 
return  from  Massachusetts  I  called  at  the  village  of  Cranston, 
Rhode  Island,  and  had  a  pleasant  interview  with  Past  Grand 
Master  Wood,  one  of  the  most  devoted  and  persevering  Odd 
Fellows  in  the  eastern  part  of  our  country."  His  sudden  death 
was  a  great  blow  to  Odd  Fellowship,  and  an  irreparable  loss  to 
Rhode  Island.  He  was  a  man  of  such  sterling  qualities  as  to 
ensure  his  usefulness  in  all  his  undertakings.  His  merits  were 
all  of  that  practical  sort  wrhich  enabled  him  to  serve  in  any 
capacity  with  credit  and  success.  His  principles  were  deeply 
founded  in  those  primary  truths  which  underlie  all  true  charity 
and  fraternity,  and  his  life  was  a  beautiful  illustration  of  his 
principles.  In  the  circle  where  he  was  best  known  he  is  yet 
remembered  for  his  virtues,  and  held  up  as  a  model  to  the  rising 
brethren  of  Rhode  Island.  We  have  not  the  space  to  speak  as 
they  deserve  of  Thomas  Barr  and  George  Ashworth,  who  filled  a 
large  place  in  the  operations  of  Good  Samaritan  Lodge. 

THOMAS    BAER. 

Thomas  Barr  was  born  in  Glasgow,  Scotland,  on  the  17th  of 
August,  1792.  The  date  of  his  emigration  is  not  given,  but  we 
find  him  at  Taunt-on  in  1828.  On  March  8th  of  that  year  he 
\vas  initiated  in  Good  Samaritan  Lodge.  He  now  found  himself 
in  congenial  company.  To  a  certain  class  of  men,  lodge  life  is 
exceedingly  pleasant.  It  was  so  to  him.  He  at  once  became 
what  is  called  "  a  worker."  In  and  out  of  season  he  was  on  hand, 
serving  his  brethren.  In  due  course  he  was  pressed  into  the 
chairs,  and  soon  completed  the  routine  of  official  duty.  He  was 
admitted  a  member  of  the  Grand  Lodge  in  October  1831.  He 
never  faltered  or  fell  away,  but  clung  to  the  Order  until  the  gen- 
eral wreck.  The  year  1838  found  him  at  Lowell.  Here  ho 
found  the  remnants  of  Merrimac  Lodge,  No.  7,  which  had  lost- 
its  charter  in  1836.  He  assembled  these  few  in  several  meetings, 
and  finally  induced  them  to  send  for  Wildey  to  put  the  lodge 
again  in  operation.  The  lodge  was  reopened  on  the  llth  of 


358  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

October,  1839.  Wildey  did  not  reach  the  State  until  June,  1841. 
On  the  3d  of  August,  1841,  he  reinstituted  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Massachusetts.  Of  those  found  faithful  and  alive  to  the  situation 
was  Thomas  Barr.  He  had  the  rare  distinction  of  being  made 
the  first  Deputy  Grand  Master  at  this  revival,  with  Hersey  as 
G.  Master,  Guild  as  G.  Secretary,  and  Norris  as  G.  Treasurer. 
He  was  again  elected  to  the  same  office  in  1842,  and  did  not 
retire  until  the  next  year,  when  Chapin  and  Hilliard  came  in, 
the  former  as  G.  Master  and  the  latter  as  G.  Secretary.  The 
work  was  now  in  readiness  to  pass  to  other  and  newer  men. 
It  was  far  different  when  he  came  with  Ashworth  to  Boston  for 
the  G.  Lodge  Degree  in  1831.  Then  there  was  no  hall,  no  bodv 
of  membership,  and  no  organization,  and  a  few  members  were 
drummed  together  at  a  private  house.  But  now  all  was  changed, 
and  Odd  Fellowship  was  safe  and  prosperous. 

He  joined  Monomake  Encampment,  No.  4,  in  1843,  and  has, 
since  that  timej  assisted  in  obtaining  charters  for  Lowell  Encamp- 
ment, No.  17,  and  Lawrence  Encampment,  No.  31.  He  passed 
the  chairs  in  his  Encampment,  and  became  a  member  of  the 
Grand  Encampment,  on  its  institution  in  1844,  and  was  elected 
G.  Senior  Warden.  "  He  was  a  man  of  marked  individuality 
and  great  energy  of  character,  a  genuine  Odd  Fellow,  who  never 
spared  time,  money  or  muscle  to  advance  the  interest  of  the  Order. 
He  has  hardly  ever  failed  of  being  present  at  each  session  of  the 
Grand  Lodge."  So  says  that  sterling  Odd  Fellow,  P.  G.  Eep. 
Porter,  of  Massachusetts.  He  is  still  alive  at  the  advanced  age 
of  eighty-six,  and  resides  at  Lawrence,  in  that  State.  To  the  last 
he  has  preserved  his  integrity.  In  the  language  of  Past  Grand 
Sire  Ellison,  "  Massachusetts  Odd  Fellows  will  mourn  his  loss 
with  a  deep  sorrow,  when  he  shall  be  called  upon  to  exchange 
the  jeweled  regalia  of  an  Odd  Fellow  for  the  robes  and  crown  of 
the  immortal  life." 

Bro.  George  Ashworth  was  born  in  Lancashire,  England,  in 
1803,  learned  the  trade  of  calico  printing,  and  in  the  year  1823 
was  initiated  in  Prosperity  Lodge,  No.  44,  of  the  Manchester 
Unity.  He  came  over  in  1826,  and  found  employment  at  Tann- 
ton,  Massachusetts.  It  was  here  he  met  Bro.  Barr,  and  the  two 
Odd  Fellows  formed  one  of  those  intimacies  peculiar  to  our  Order, 
which  only  death  can  interrupt.  He  joined  Good  Samaritan 
Lodge  by  deposit  of  card,  and  in  1829  was  elected  Noble  Grand. 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  359 

He  entered  the  Grand  Lodge,  October  8th,  1831.  Removing  to 
Lowell,  he  became  a  member  of  Merrimac  Lodge,  and  was  asso- 
ciated with  Bro.  Barr  in  all  the  details  of  the  Order  in  that  city. 
He  was,  when  last  heard  from,  living  with  a  married  daughter 
in  Lowell,  and,  like  his  zealous  coadjutor,  was  seldom  absent 
from  meetings  of  the  subordinates  and  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
State. 

Good  Samaritan  Lodge,  No.  3,  continued  to  increase  and 
prosper  for  several  years.  Past  Noble  Grand  Wood,  of  the  date 
of  March  26th,  1829,  wrote  to  the  Grand  Lodge  as  follows :  "  The 
concerns  of  our  own  (Good  Samaritan)  Lodge  are  in  a  very  flour- 
ishing condition  ;  our  prospects  grow  brighter  every  day,  and  we 
hope  to  hear  of  the  general  increase  of  the  Order.  Our  lodge 
consists  of  just  seventy  members,  all  worthy  and  respectable  men  ; 
thirty-two  of  whom  have  been  initiated  since  last  March,  and 
there  is  a  prospect  of  the  same  ratio  of  increase  next  year.  "We 
are  sorry  to  say  we  have  not  yet  procured  a  seal ;  if  we  can  get 
one  we  will  send  you  an  impression  before  you  send  to  Baltimore. 
"Wishing  you  all  health  and  happiness,  and  especially  unanimity 
and  brotherly  love,  we  strongly  recommend  you  to  exert  your- 
selves for  the  welfare  and  advancement  of  the  best  interests  of 
our  Order.  Trusting  to  your  zeal  and  fidelity,  we  remain  yours 
fraternally  in  bonds  of  F.,  L.  and  T.  In  behalf  of  Good  Samari- 
tan Lodge,  JAMES  WOOD,  P.  N.  G.  Approved :  GEORGE  ASH- 
WORTH,  N.  G." 

A  large  portion  of  the  members  of  Good  Samaritan  Lodge 
were  operatives  in  the  Taunton  Factory,  and  when  the  business 
panic  of  1832  came  on,  the  factory  was  forced  to  partially  sus- 
pend operations,  which,  of  course,  caused  many  hands  to  be  dis- 
charged and  to  seek  employment  elsewhere.  By  this  means  the 
numerical  strength  of  the  lodge  was  reduced  ;  whilst  the  action  of 
the  legislature  imposing  penalties  for  administering  extra-judicial 
oaths  prevented  the  making  of  new  members.  In  his  report  of 
1833,  G.  Sire  Wildey  says :  "  On  the  14th  of  August  I  arrived  at 
Taunton  ;  I  visited  the  brothers  of  Good  Samaritan  Lodge,  No.  3. 
Owing  to  the  neglect  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  it  had  fallen  into  an 
unprosperous  condition.  Nearly  two  years  had  elapsed  since  any 
communication  had  been  received  from  it,  and  many  of  the  mem- 
bers having  left  that  section  of  the  State,  the  lodge  has  been 
reduced  to  eight  members  only ;  but  those  eight  worthy,  zealous, 


360  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

persevering  Odd  Fellows  have  determined  not  to  suffer  the  Order 
to  become  extinct  in  the  town  of  Taunton.  To  enable  them  the 
better  to  carry  into  effect  their  resolution  of  cherishing  the  Order 
among  themselves  and  brothers  of  the  town,  they  are  anxious  to- 
be  taken  under  the  immediate  jurisdiction  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
the  United  States.  After  promising  to  visit  them  on  my  return, 
I  again  departed  for  Boston."  This  was  the  last  effort  to  keep 
the  organization  together,  and  shortly  afterwards  the  lodge  was 
disbanded  and  closed  up  its  business  sine  die. 

Next  in  order  was  New  England  Lodge,  No.  4,  whose  career,, 
though  short,  was  full  of  interest.  Its  first  preliminary  meeting 
was  held  at  the  house  of  Past  Grand  Joseph  Lopez ;  at  the  second,, 
held  on  May  17th,  1827,  the  name  of  the  lodge  was  selected. 
Bro.  Lopez  presided  at  the  meeting.  Bro.  S.  Southwick  was 
chosen  Secretary,  and  continued  to  hold  that  office  until  the  last 
meeting  prior  to  the  surrender  of  the  charter,  which  was  held  on 
the  13th  of  February,  1829.  Among  the  charter  members  were 
those  already  mentioned,  and  Thomas  F.  Norris,  who  was  well 
known  in  the  Order. 

The  Rev.  Thomas  F.  Norris  was  initiated  in  Massachusetts 
Lodge  for  Siloam  Lodge,  as  before  stated,  on  the  2d  of  January, 
1826.  He  was  installed  as  Noble  Grand  of  New  England  Lodge, 
July  llth,  1828.  Bro.  Norris  was  editor  of  the  Olive  Branch^ 
a  weekly  newspaper  published  in  Boston.  It  was  conducted 
with  ability,  and  had  a  large  circulation.  The  editor  was  a  gen- 
tleman of  many  excellent  qualities,  and  was  an  enthusiastic  Odd 
Fellow.  The  influence  of  his  paper  was  always  given  to  the 
Order,  and  he  never  failed  to  give  it  his  valuable  assistance.  He 
entered  the  G.  L.  on  the  14th  of  July,  1829.  At  the  resuscita- 
tion of  the  G.  L.  of  Massachusetts  lie  was  made  Conductor,  in 
1843  Deputy  Grand  Master,  and  at  the  August  session  of  1844 
succeeded  the  eminent  Rev.  E.  H.  Chapin  as  Grand  Master. 

Simeon  Southwick  was  made  an  Odd  Fellow  in  Massachu- 
setts Lodge,  No.  1,  in  October,  1820 ;  he  served  as  Secretary  of 
that  lodge,  and  became  Noble  Grand,  April  1st,  1826.  In  1828- 
he  became  Grand  Secretary  of  the  Grand  Lodge.  Bro.  South- 
wick was  a  native  of  this  country,  having  been  born  in  Danversy 
Massachusetts,  in  1795.  He  came  of  an  excellent  family,  and  at 
fourteen  years  of  age  was  apprenticed  to  the  pottery  business,  at 
which  he  worked  until  1819,  when  he  removed  to  East  Cam- 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  361 

bridge,  where  he  set  up  the  business.  He  did  not  succeed,  and 
in  1821  was  engaged  by  the  New  England  Glass  Company,  and 
with  a  short  interval,  remained  in  that  employment  until  his 
death,  in  February,  1S33.  He  left  a  widow  and  five  children, 
four  of  them  daughters.  These  latter  were  all  married,  and  lat- 
terly became  Daughters  of  Rebekah.  The  eldest  daughter  had 
four  girls,  all  of  whom  joined  the  "  Daughters."  Another  had 
two  sons  and  one  daughter,  all  members ;  another  a  son,  who  be- 
came a  member,  and  the  last,  a  daughter,  who  became  a  "  Rebe- 
kah."  "We  challenge  the  world  to  produce  such  a  family  record 
in  all  the  annals  of  Odd  Fellowship. 

Joseph  Lopez  was  initiated  in  Massachusetts  Lodge  in  March, 
1825,  and  was  made  N.  G.  on  the  1st  day  of  July,  1827.  In 
1828  he  withdrew,  and  was  one  of  the  petitioners  for  Adaia 
Lodge,  No.  6,  and  on  its  institution,  on  the  31st  of  December,. 
1828,  was  elected  Warden;  he  had  passed  the  chairs,  and  was 
admitted  into  the  G.  Lodge,  January  3d,  1828,  and  on  the  5th  of 
June  was  elected  G.  Treasurer.  Although  one  of  the  petitioners 
for  New  England  Lodge,  No.  5,  he  never  became  a  full  member, 
by  reason  of  the  fact  that  he  failed  to  get  the  necessary  vote  for 
that  purpose.  He  was  born  in  Cadiz,  Spain,  and  in  early  life  fol- 
lowed the  sea.  He  sailed  from  Boston  for  several  years,  and  was 
one  of  the  many  acquaintances  made  by  Bro.  Barnes,  who  in- 
duced him  to  join  Massachusetts  Lodge.  In  1828  he  abandoned 
the  sea  and  settled  down  in  East  Cambridge,  where  he  wras  em- 
ployed by  the  New  England  Glass  Company,  where  he  remained 
about  twenty-five  years.  He  was  of  unsocial  habits,  and  so  very 
reticent  that  members  of  New  England  Lodge,  who  worked  by 
his  side  for  more  than  twenty  years,  could  not  penetrate  his  mys- 
tery or  become  his  intimates.  But  he  loved  Odd  Fellowship,  and 
was  always  ready  to  assist  a  lodge  or  brother  in  distress.  He 
removed  to  Lawrence  in  1855,  and  died  there  in  December, 
1859.  But  to  return  to  the  narrative. 

In  August,  1828,  the  finance  committee  reported  that  the 
funds  of  New  England  Lodge  had  not  assumed  a  distinct  form, 
consequently  the  duties  of  the  Treasurer  had  been  very  light ; 
the  cash  receipts  were  $32.74  and  the  expenditures  $39.75,. 
leaving  a  balance  due  by  the  lodge  of  $7.01.  After  this  the 
meetings  were  not  well  attended ;  the  membership  grew  less, 
and  no  money  came  into  the  treasury,  until  the  crisis  came,  on 


362  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Friday  evening,  February  13th,  1829,  when  its  last  meeting  was 
lield.  No  business  of  importance  had  been  performed  in  the 
interval,  and  no  preparations  were  made  for  shutting  the  doors 
of  the  lodge ;  an  adjournment  occurred,  and  no  meeting  was 
afterwards  convened. 

Washington  Lodge,  No.  5,  was  instituted  at  Roxbury  in 
June,  1828.  The  original  members  were  poor,  and  a  note  of 
$30  was  taken  for  the  charter  fee ;  but  they  were  zealous  and 
•devoted  to  the  Order.  In  September,  1830,  Grand  Sire  Wildey 
•says :  "  Your  committee  visited  the  lodge  at  Eoxbury,  and  were 
received  with  unusual  honor ;  and  they  are  happy  to  report  that 
the  lodge  is  in  a  very  prosperous  condition,  and  its  members 
worthy  the  honorable  appellation  of  Odd  Fellows.  They  were 
-disposed  to  do  everything  in  their  power  to  promote  the  interests 
of  the  Order."  But  these  appearances  were  fallacious,  and 
leaving  no  record  by  which  to  trace  its  history,  it  passed  away  in 
1832. 

Adam  Lodge,  No.  6,  was  chartered  in  November,  1828,  and 
so  far  as  we  can  learn  was  prosperous  for  the  first  two  years. 
But  in  the  latter  part  of  1830  it  began  to  decline,  and  was  evi- 
dently tending  to  dissolution.  On  April  7th  of  that  year  the 
rent  was  in  arrear,  and  paid  by  a  subscription  among  the  mem- 
bers. Of  the  sum  of  $22.92  collected,  Bro.  Andrews  gave  ten 
dollars ;  Bro.  Robinson  five  dollars  and  fifty  cents ;  Bro.  Arthur 
five  dollars  and  forty-two  cents,  and  Bro.  Albert  Guild  two 
dollars.  On  June  2d,  1830,  the  lodge  elected  John  Cleaveland, 
Noble  Grand ;  Albert  Guild,  Vice  Grand ;  E.  Whitaker,  Secre- 
tary ;  J.  L.  White,  Treasurer,  and  Aaron  Andrews,  Warden. 
On  the  30th  of  June  a  Mr.  Israel  Gates  applied  for  membership, 
but  the  committee  having  reported  unfavorably,  he  was  allowed 
to  withdraw  his  petition.  This  was  dignified  and  honorable  on 
the  part  of  the  lodge,  at  a  time  when  it  was  about  to  dissolve  for 
want  of  numbers.  About  this  time  it  was  voted,  "  that  at  the 
expiration  of  the  third  quarter,  the  furniture  be  stored  in  some 
convenient  place  until  the  lodge  shall  be  ready  to  make  use  of 
it."  This  was  the  situation  when  a  special  meeting  was  held 
November  23d,  1830,  at  which  certain  visiting  brethren  agreed 
to  become  members  and  help  the  lodge  to  resume  work.  On 
the  1st  of  December,  1830,  Bro.  Cleaveland  was  installed  as 
Noble  Grand  and  Albert  Guild  as  Vice  Grand.  On  January 


ODD   FELLOWSHIP    IN    MASSACHUSETTS.  363 

5th,  1831,  Bro.  Arthur  was  expelled  by  a  unanimous  vote.  At 
the  meeting  of  February  3d,  1831,  Albert  Guild  was  elected 
Noble  Grand  ;  E.  H.  Whitaker,  Vice  Grand ;  Bro.  Hay  ward, 
Secretary;  Bro.  Cleaveland,  Treasurer,  and  Bro.  Wilde,  Warden, 
and  they  were  all  duly  installed.  The  lodge  lingered  on  until 
its  last  meeting,  held  March  21st,  1832,  when  ineffectual  efforts 
were  made  to  get  np  a  revival,  and  having  conferred  the  first 
Degree  on  Bro.  Isaac  Baldwin,  finally  closed. 

Merrimac  Lodge,  No.  7,  was  the  last  chartered  during  the 
first  decade;  we  have  nothing  to  say  of  this  lodge  more  than 
has  been  incidentally  mentioned.  Its  closing  scenes  will  be  de- 
tailed in  the  history  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts. 

The  Patriarchal  Degrees  did  undoubtedly  reach  Massachu- 
setts, but  there  is  no  record  of  their  having  been  organized  into 
an  Encampment.  True,  a  petition  was  sent  to  the  G.  Lodge  for 
a  charter  for  an  Encampment,  but  on  the  14th  of  July,  1829,  it 
was  voted  that  the  petition  lie  over  until  a  final  settlement  is 
made  with  this  Grand  Lodge.  On  the  16th  of  July  the  petition 
•was  taken  up  and  granted.  But  a  single  trace  of  an  Encamp- 
ment has  been  discovered  ;  among  a  file  of  papers  received  from 
the  Grand  Secretary's  office  in  Baltimore  we  find  the  following : 

u  Bro.  -  ,  there  will  be  an  Encampment  of  Patriarchs 

on  Thursday  evening  at  8  o'clock  at  the  Hall  on  Ann  Street. 
By  order  of  the  Grand  Patriarch. 

J.  D.  YATES,  Scribe. 

"Wednesday  16th,  1829." 

We  have  followed  the  lamented  Ellison  in  his  notes  of  the 
story  of  early  Odd  Fellowship  in  Massachusetts — a  narrative 
dry  and  barren,  but  gathered  together  by  him  with  the  most 
painstaking  care,  and  by  research  into  obscure  nooks  and  corners 
hard  to  find  and  yet  harder  to  explore.  We  only  wonder  how 
he  could  have  brought  so  many  minute  circumstances  to  light 
which  had  been  neglected  and  forgotten  for  half  a  century. 

Nearly  all  subordinate  lodges  of  the  first  decade  still  exist. 
Massachusetts  Lodge,  No.  1,  has  208  members ;  its  revenue  for 
last  six  months  was  $1270.74;  relief  for  same  period  $1039.25. 

Siloam  Lodge,  No.  2,  ranks  next  to  the  highest  in  Massachu- 
setts in  point  of  numbers.  We  have  been  able  to  obtain,  through 
the  kindness  of  P.  G.  Representative  Wm.  E.  Ford,  an  extended 


364  AMERICAN   ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

statement  of  its  condition.  This  lodge  was  closed  for  12  years 
and  7  months,  but  opened  again  on  the  16th  day  of  May,  1842. 
The  officers  were  Solon  Jenkins,  N.  G.;  Win.  Ingalls,  Y.  G.; 
Joshua  Davis,  Sect'y ;  and  Nahum  Brigham,  Treasurer.  Bro. 
Brigham  is  now  a  hale  man,  and  the  last  relic  of  the  old  mem- 
bers, as  he  entered  the  lodge  in  1827 ;  he  has  passed  the  chairs 
several  times,  and  after  a  membership  of  52  years,  still  continues 
to  attend  the  meetings.  Siloain  Lodge  has,  since  May,  1842, 
received  1570  members,  and  has  now  the  large  number  of  556 ; 
853  sick  brothers  have  been  paid  $34,321 ;  widows  to  the  number 
of  70  have  been  paid  $16,000;  paid  for  funeral  expenses,  $6015,, 
and  donations,  $8039,  making  a  total  for  benefit  and  relief  of 
$64,375.  One  member  is  still  sick  and  has  already  received 
$2100.  It  has  furnished  the  following  G.  Masters :  Eev.  E.  M, 
P.  Wells,  Jno.  R.  Multin,  E.  H.  Tucker,  Wm.  E.  Ford,  Thos.  (1 
Porter  and  Fred.  C.  Davis,  and  can  furnish  many  more  compe- 
tent to  fill  any  position  in  the  Order. 

Good  Samaritan  Lodge,  No.  3,  and  Adam  Lodge,  No.  6,  are 
defunct,  and  their  numbers  now  represent  modern  lodges.  New 
England  Lodge,  No.  4,  of  East  Cambridge,  is  the  owner  of  a  fine 
building,  which  is  partially  rented  ^and  contains  an  excellent  halL 
It  numbers  265  members,  and  its  P.  G.  Masters  are  Rev.  Thomas 
F.  Norris  and  Hon.  Wm.  E.  Parmenter.  This  lodge  had  the  first 
public  installation  in  the  State.  Washington  Lodge,  No.  5,  Bos- 
ton, is  in  a  prosperous  condition.  Merrimac  Lodge,  No.  7,  of 
Lowell,  now  numbers  336  members.  This  has  always  been  a 
staunch  and  hard  working  lodge,  and  has  Thos.  Barr  and  George 
Ashworth  on  its  roll.  It  has  united  with  other  lodges  in  the  owner- 
ship of  a  beautiful  building,  which  is  a  good  investment  and  an 
ornament  to  that  city. 

We  gladly  recognize  our  obligations  to  P.  G.  Reps.  Porter 
and  Ford,  of  Mass.,  for  their  valuable  services,  especially  in  get- 
ting up  the  illustrations  for  this  and  the  succeeding  chapter. 


CHAPTER  XV. 

THE    GEAND    LODGE    OF    MASSACHUSETTS. 

We  have  detailed  the  irregular  and  unfortunate  career  of  the 
-subordinate  lodges  in  Massachusetts  during  the  first  decade. 
Massachusetts  Lodge,  No.  1,  was  the  mother  lodge,  being  self-in- 
stituted on  the  20th  day  of  March,  1820.  This  organization  stood 
alone  for  about  three  years  before  bearing  fruit,  but  on  the  llth 
of  March,  1823,  gave  birth  to  Siloam  Lodge.  It  was  about  this 
time  that  the  Baltimore  movement  made  its  first  effort  for  an 
extension  of  legal  Odd  Fellowship.  We  have  given,  in  the  chap- 
ter on  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.,  a  copy  of  the  letter 
of  Philemon  Stacy,  Sec.  of  Massachusetts  Lodge,  to  Washington 
Lodge.  The  date  was  March  28th,  1823,  and  the  contents,  while 
covering  the  whole  ground  sought  for,  were  far  short  of  indicating 
a  true  idea  of  the  workings  of  the  American  order  by  the  breth- 
ren of  Massachusetts.  The  application  was  made  to  Washington 
Lodge  instead  of  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.  The 
petition  was  by  a  lodge,  and  not  by  five  brothers,  and  the  request 
was  not  for  a  subordinate,  but  for  a  G.  Lodge.  But  the  object 
was  easily  understood,  and  the  G.  body  did  not  hesitate  to  over- 
look every  irregularity,  and  at  once  joyfully  responded  to  Massa- 
chusetts Lodge.  We  have  seen  the  result  in  the  institution  of 
Massachusetts  Lodge,  No.  1,  under  a  charter  from  the  Supreme 
Body,  on  the  9th  of  June,  1823.  As  before  stated,  G.  M.  Wil- 
dey  was  also  authorized  to  open  a  G.  Lodge  for  the  State.  This 
was  in  accordance  with  the  following,  adopted  by  the  Baltimore 
authority  on  the  13th  day  of  April,  1823 : 

"  Resolved,  That  a  charter  be  granted  to  Massachusetts  Lodge, 
No.  1. 

"  Resolved,  That  a  dispensation  for  a  Grand  Lodge  to  grant 
charters  to  other  lodges  in  the  State  of  Massachusetts,  be  given 
free  of  expense  to  the  P.  Grands  of  those  lodges,  and  to  be  located 
at  Boston." 

We  have  already  related  that  Wildey  was  unanimously  de- 
puted to  convey  this  charter  to  the  brethren  and  open  the  new 
lodges.  He  arrived  at  Boston  on  the  8th  of  June,  and  hav- 

(365) 


366  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

ing  opened  Massachusetts  Lodge,  he  assembled  the  P.  Grands  at 
the  old  Masonic  Hall,  near  the  head  of  Ann  Street,  on  the  even- 
ing of  June  llth,  1823.  On  that  occasion  he  took  the  chair,  and 
read  in  their  hearing  the  first  Grand  charter  issued  by  the  G. 
Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S. 

CHARTER    OF    THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MASSA- 
CHUSETTS. 

ORDER  OF  INDEPENDENT  ODD  FELLOWS. 

To  all  whom  it  may  concern : — The  grand  Lodge  of  Mary- 
land and  of  the  United  States,  by  authority  of  a  Grand  charter, 
granted  by  the  Duke  of  York  Lodge,  held  in  the  borough  of 
Preston,  County  Palatine  of  Lancaster,  England,  doth  hereby 
grant  this  Grand  Charter  to  five  Past  Grands  of  the  Order  of  In- 
dependent Odd  Fellows,  residing  in  the  State  of  Massachusetts, 
to  form  a  Grand  Lodge  for  the  said  State,  for  the  encouragement 
and  support  of  brothers  of  the  said  Order  when  on  travel  or  other- 
wise. And  the  said  Grand  Lodge,  being  duly  formed,  is  hereby 
authorized  and  empowered  to  grant  Warrants  or  Dispensations 
to  true  and  faithful  brothers  to  open  lodges  according  to  the  laws 
of  Odd  Fellowship,  and  to  administer  to  the  Past  Grands  all  the 
privileges  and  benefits  appertaining  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  to 
enact  by-laws  for  the  government  of  their  lodge.  Provided, 
always,  that  the  said  Grand  Lodge  do  act  according  to  the  Order, 
and  in  conjunction  with  and  obedience  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
the  United  States,  adhering  to  and  supporting  the  constitution 
of  the  same.  In  default  thereof  this  charter  may  be  suspended 
or  taken  away,  at  the  decision  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United 
States.  And  further,  the  Grand  Lodge  (in  consideration  of  the 
due  performance  of  the  above)  do  bind  themselves  to  repair  all 
damages  or  destruction  of  the  charter,  whether  by  fire  or  other 
accident,  provided,  sufficient  proof  be  given  that  there  is  no  ille- 
gal concealment  or  wilful  destruction  of  the  same.  In  witness 
whereof  we  have  displayed  the  colors  of  our  Order,  and  sub- 
scribed our  names  and  affixed  the  seal  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Maryland  and  of  the  United  States,  this  13th  day  of  April,  A.  D. 
one  thousand  eight  hundred  and  twenty-three. 

THOMAS  WILDEY,  G.  M. 
JOHN  WELCH,  D.  G.  M. 
r          -,  THOMAS  MITCHELL,  G.  W. 

JOHN  PAWSON  ENTWISLE,  G.  Sec. 
JOHN  BOYD,  G.  G. 
WILLIAM  LARKAM,  G.  C. 
Past  Grands. 

DUNCAN  McCoRMiCK,  THOMAS  SCOTCHBURN, 

JAMES  SEED,  WILLIAM  WILLIAMS, 

JOHN  NELSON,  WILLIAM  ANSTICE, 

WILLIAM  TONG. 


MASONIC    HALL,   ANN   ST.,    BOSTON,    1823. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  367 

In  September,  1833,  this  charter  was  recalled  ;  but  when  the 
G.  Lodge  of  Massachusetts  was  reinstated  in  December,  1841,  it 
could  not  be  found  in  the  archives,  and  a  new  charter  was  granted 
in  lieu  thereof.  The  original  paper  was  afterwards  discovered 
in  the  manner  detailed  by  P.  G.  Rep.  Porter  to  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Mass.,  at  its  February  session,  1873.  He  says:  "It  is  probably 
well  known  to  many  of  the  representatives,  that  at  the  time  of 
the  re-establishment  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Massachusetts,  the  origi- 
nal charter  signed  by  P.  G.  S.  Wildey  could  not  be  found,  and 
we  were  furnished  with  another  charter.  Last  year,  (1872),  P. 
G.  S.  J.  A.  Kennedy,  in  his  researches  among  the  archives  in 
search  of  historical  material,  found  the  original  charter,  of  which 
he  kindly  informed  our  G.  Sec.,  and  your  representatives  were 
requested  by  the  Board  of  G.  Officers  to  procure  the  document, 
if  possible.  At  an  early  stage  of  the  session,  upon  the  circum- 
stances being  stated  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.,  the  R.  W.  G. 
Sec.  was  directed  to  deliver  to  your  representatives  the  desired 
paper ;  and  we  are  happy  to  report  that  it  is  now  in  the  office  of 
the  G.  Lodge  of  Massachusetts." 

The  original  charter  being  accepted,  the  following  officers 
were  duly  elected  and  installed :  Daniel  Horsey  of  Siloam 
Lodge,  G.  M.;  Henry  Solomon  of  Massachusetts  Lodge,  D.  G. 
M.;  James  B.  Barnes  of  Siloam  Lodge,  G.  W.;  William  Bishop 
of  Massachusetts  Lodge,  G.  Sec.;  John  Snowden,  G.  G.;  James 
B.  Eaton,  G.  Con.  Proclamation  was  then  made  by  G.  M. 
Wildey  of  the  formal  opening  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  after  a 
session  spent  in  mutual  congratulations,  the  new  body  adjourned. 
Thus  the  Order  was  legally  organized  in  the  State,  with  every 
means  for  conducting  its  business  and  spreading  its  principles. 
At  a  special  meeting  held  on  Monday  evening,  June  16,  1823, 
there  was  a  full  attendance  to  take  leave  of  G.  M.  Wildey.  The 
G.  M.  made  a  very  appropriate  address,  setting  forth  his  satisfac- 
tion with  the  fraternal  treatment  he  had  received,  and  urging 
them  to  the  faithful  performance  of  the  duties  they  had  assumed. 
Whereupon  the  G.  Lodge  unanimously  passed  a  vote  of  thanks, 
and  ordered  it  to  be  engrossed  on  parchment  and  presented  to 
Wildey.  G.  M.  Hersey  replied,  thanking  the  distinguished  visi- 
tor for  his  services;  and  thus  ended  the  first  mission  of  the 
founder  to  the  Odd  Fellows  of  New  England.  This  visit  gave 
an  impetus  to  the  Order  far  beyond  what  appears  on  this  record. 


368  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Tiiia  was  caused  by  Wildey's  social  qualities,  his  burning  zeal,  the 
interesting  account  of  the  movements  of  the  Order  in  England, 
and  his  prophetic  visions  of  its  future  greatness  in  this  country. 
During  his  brief  stay  he  endeared  himself  to  the  brethren,  and 
left  many  pleasant  memories  behind  him. 

DANIEL    HERSEY. 

G.  M.  Daniel  Hersey  was  born  in  Hingham,  Massachusetts, 
on  December  14,  1786.  He  was  but  six  years  old  when  his 
father  died,  which  deprived  him,  a  few  years  later,  of  the  educa- 
tion which  a  country  school  might  then  have  imparted.  Young 
Hersey  was  called  to  work  on  a  farm,  and  obtained  the  rudiments 
in  the  winter  time,  after  the  day's  toil  was  over,  in  an  evening 
school.  But  he  was  fond  of  books,  and  the  most  of  his  leisure 
was  occupied  in  reading  and  study.  At  the  age  of  fourteen 
years  he  was  sent  to  learn  the  trade  of  a  bookbinder,  but 
the  sudden  change  from  outdoor  employment  injured  his 
health  and  he  was  obliged  to  seek  some  other  employment. 
After  several  visits  to  Boston  he  entered  a  wholesale  West  India 
goods  store,  where  he  remained  several  years.  Business  getting 
dull  the  firm  had  to  curtail  expenses,  and  in  so  doing  dispensed 
with  his  services.  The  young  man  immediately  conceived  the 
idea  of  selling  West  India  goods  at  auction.  Having  made  the 
suggestion  to  his  employers  without  effect,  he  resolved  to  try  the 
experiment  on  his  own  account.  He  obtained  pecuniary  assist- 
ance from  several  business  friends  and  made  a  beginning.  Being 
the  first  to  sell  such  goods  at  auction,  the  novelty  of  the  attempt 
attracted  a  large  attendance.  He  persevered  with  indomitable 
energy  until  he  established  a  paying  business,  which  he  con- 
tinued successfully  down  to  the  time  of  his  last  illness. 

It  was  at  the  instance  of  Bro.  James  B.  Eaton,  the  second  N. 
G.  of  Massachusetts  Lodge,  that  Bro.  Hersey  was  initiated  in 
1821.  In  April,  1822,  he  was  elected  K  G.  of  that  lodge,  and 
was  re-elected  to  that  office  on  the  5th  of  July,  1822.  No  name 
stands  higher  on  the  roll  of  early  Odd  Fellowship  than  that  of 
the  first  G.  M.  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Massachusetts.  He  gave  to 
the  Order  in  its  infancy  his  time,  his  money,  and  his  infiuence, 
and  was  always  in  the  front  among  those  who  understood  and 
cherished  the  principles  of  the  institution.  It  was  by  his  courage 


DANIEL  HERSEY, 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  36l> 

and  faithfulness  that  the  little  band  of  the  early  lodges  were  encour- 
aged, and  by  his  persuasive  and  magnetic  words  they  were  filled 
with  zeal  in  the  cause.  To  him,  above  others,  has  been  awarded 
the  honor  of  divesting  lodge  meetings  of  the  convivial  feature, 
and  imparting  to  the  proceedings  an  elevated  tone  of  moral  ex- 
cellence. He  continued  to  manifest  the  most  ardent  attachment 
to  the  brotherhood  to  the  close  of  a  protracted  life ;  and  lived  to 
see  the  Order  emerge  from  poverty  and  obscurity  to  wealth  and 
fame.  During  his  career  he  was  the  recipient  of  several  substan- 
tial tokens  of  the  esteem  in  which  he  was  held  by  his  brethren. 
He  died  in  Boston,  on  the  26th  of  May,  1858,  at  the  ripe  age  of 
seventy-one  years  and  five  months.  His  remains  were  followed 
to  the  grave  in  Mount  Auburn  by  almost  the  entire  brotherhood 
of  the  State  and  a  large  concourse  of  mourning  friends. 

We  must  not  fail  to  record  that  Bro.  Hersey,  at  the  revival  of 
the  Order  in  1841,  was  made  G.  Master  and  afterwards  was  elected 
a  Rep.  to  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  He  served  during  the  session  of  1843, 
and  was  an  active  member  of  the  body.  He  had  also  the  honor 
of  being  nominated  for  D.  G.  Sire  at  that  session,  and  was  com- 
plimented with  a  respectable  vote  for  the  position. 

But  little  is  known  of  the  personal  history  of  the  Grand 
Officers  during  the  first  decade;  what  we  have  been  able  to 
learn  of  James  B.  Barnes  has  been  already  detailed.  P.  G. 
William  Bishop  was  an  Englishman  and  followed  the  business 
of  a  gunsmith.  He  was  a  man  of  observation  and  industry,  and 
Avas  prompt  in  the  discharge  of  duty.  In  June,  1827,  he  was 
elected  G.  M.,  but  resigned  at  the  next  meeting.  P.  G.  James 
B.  Eaton  was  a  valuable  member  and  gave  much  assistance  to 
the  early  lodges.  He  was  one  of  the  originators  of  the  Order  in 
the  State,  and  his  residence  on  Federal  Street  was  the  place 
where  Massachusetts  Lodge  held  its  first  meeting.  He  was  its 
second  N.  G.,  and  continued  to  fill  many  official  positions  for 
several  years. 

The  first  regular  session  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Mass,  was  held 
on  the  20th  of  July,  1823,  when  the  G.  M.  announced  the  death 
of  P.  G.  James  Encill ;  and  the  lodge  adjourned  to  attend  the 
funeral.  The  record  says :  "  The  lodges  having  accompanied 
him  to  the  place  of  interment,  the  funeral  obsequies,  according  to 
the  rules  of  the  Order,  were  performed  by  the  G.  M.  of  the 
State."  On  the  29th  of  August,  1823,  a  special  session  was  called 
24 


370  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

to  consider  a  communication  from  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of 
the  United  States.  The  subject  of  the  letter  was  Joseph  Batsonr 
who  has  been  referred  to  as  an  expelled  member  of  Mass.  Lodge, 
No.  1.  It  seems  that  Batson  had  found  his  way  to  Baltimore, 
and  was  loud  in  complaints  of  the  brethren  in  Massachusetts. 
His  stories  seem  to  have  made  some  impression,  as  John  P.  Ent- 
wisle,  the  G.  Sec.  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.,  wrote 
to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Mass,  and  suggested  that  Batson  might  not 

o  oo  o 

be  deserving  of  such  severity,  and  recommending  that  his  case- 
should  receive  further  consideration.  The  G.  Lodge  of  Mass. 
returned  a  harsh  reply,  upon  the  receipt  of  which,  Batson  was 
precluded  from  participating  in  the  privileges  of  an  Odd  Fellow 
whilst  in  Baltimore.  G.  Sec.  Entwisle  then  replied  to  the  letter 
from  Mass.,  with  the  official  sanction  of  G.  M.  Wildey.  This  let- 
ter is  full  of  gentleness,  and  bears  every  mark  of  a  disposition  to 
make  any  concession  for  the  sake  of  peace.  G.  M.  Wildey  also, 
on  the  25th  of  July,  1823,  added  his  efforts  to  those  of  Entwisle 
to  heal  the  breach.  But  these  advances  were  not  met  in  the 
same  spirit ;  to  the  contrary,  the  ignoble  quarrel  with  this  worth- 
less man  was  visited  iipon  the  Baltimore  brethren  by  studied  neg- 
lect to  make  reports,  and  a  stubborn  refusal  to  answer  any  letter 
which  came  from*  the  supreme  authority. 

The  meetings  of  the  G.  Lodge  were  irregular,  and  the  sessions,, 
when  held,  were  almost  entirely  occupied  with  the  consideration 
of  disputes  between  the  subordinate  members  and  between  the 
subordinate  lodges.  Thus  charges  were  preferred  by  Bro.  Jacob 
Myers  against  G.  'A.  Gamage,  P.  N".  G.  of  Mass.  Lodge,  for  de- 
taining the  book  of  lectures  and  degrees.  Instead  of  dealing 
with  the  matter  as  a  local  question,  the  G.  Lodge  notified  the  G. 
Lodge  at  Baltimore  of  the  facts.  Acting  G.  Sec.  Fennell  replied 
in  a  letter,  dated  Baltimore,  March  25, 1824,  as  follows :  "  With 
respect  to  the  aifair  of  Bro.  Gamage,  the  G.  Committee,  without 
hesitation,  declare  it  to  be  an  occurrence  the  most  inconsistent 
and  entirely  contrary  to  the  laws  and  constitution  of  Odd  Fel- 
lowship. Should  Bro.  G.  persist  in  refusing  to  give  up  the 
degree  book  hereafter,  he  will  hear  from  us  expressly  to  that  effect. 
Concerning  the  balloting  for  the  high  chair,  the  candidates  for 
the  same  are  by  no  means  entitled  to  a  vote,  and  in  the  same 
manner  with  regard  to  the  N.  G.  and  Secretary.  Instances  have 
occurred  in  our  subordinate  lodges  where  the  presiding  N.  G.  has, 


THE   GRAND   LODGE   OF   MASSACHUSETTS.  371 

had  the  casting  vote,  and  the  N.  G.  after  his  quarter  expires  is 
obliged  to  remain  twelve  months  before  he  can  be  re-elected, 
unless  no  other  brother  is  qualified  for  the  place.  G .  M.  Wildey 
requests  you  to  bear  in  mind  his  conversation  with  you  about  the 
propriety  of  having  a  chest  with  three  locks,  in  order  to  have  the 
degree  books  deposited  therein,  together  with  other  documents, 
belonging  to  each  subordinate  lodge."  As  might  have  been 
supposed,  the  suggestion  of  the  strong  box  was  an  irresistible 
temptation  to  the  primitive  Odd  Fellows  to  whom  it  was  made. 
The  box  was  at  once  constructed,  and  the  old  chest  with  its 
three  different  locks  still  remains  in  the  possession  of  the  G.  Lodge 
of  Mass.  On  September  5,  1824,  the  sudden  death  of  G.  Sec. 
Entwisle,  at  Baltimore,  on  the  1st  of  July,  was  announced ;  and 
in  respect  for  his  memory  the  G.  Lodge  immediately  adjourned. 
In  October,  1824,  Bros.  Watts  and  Lopez  preferred  charges 
against  Siloam  Lodge,  and  on  December  9th,  Siloam  Lodge  made 
charges  against  Mass.  Lodge,  of  stripping  the  hall  on  Ann 
Street  of  its  furniture  and  regalia,  in  violation  of  a  contract  sub- 
sisting between  the  two  lodges.  The  G.  Lodge  was  in  a  compro- 
mising spirit,  and,  after  many  efforts,  referred  all  these  matters 
to  a  committee  for  adjustment.  After  much  tribulation  a  satis- 
factory settlement  was  made,  and  the  following  letter  closed  the 
controversy : 

BOSTON,  Feb'y  17,  1825. 

G.  M.  Hersey,  Sir : — I  am  directed  by  the  Siloam  Lodge  to 
inform  you  that  the  letter  of  apology  received  from  the  Mass. 
Lodge,  as  respects  their  former  misconduct,  has  been  unanimously 
considered  and  accepted  by  a  vote  of  the  lodge,  and  now  remains, 
for  you  to  act  upon.  Your  obedient  and  humble  servant, 
Approved — A.  HALL,  N.  G.  J.  S.  SLADE,  Sec. 

On  the  9th  of  June,  1825,  the  announcement  was  made  of  a 
second  visit  from  G.  M.  Wildey,  and  on  the  15th  we  find  that 
officer  present  with  the  G.  Lodge  of  Mass.  Before  leaving  he 
presented  the  P.  G.'s  with  a  brief  code  of  laws  which  had  been 
devised  by  the  Grand  Committee. 

GENERAL    LAWS. 

u  1st.  No  brother  is  entitled  to  the  Password  of  any  particular 
chair  but  the  one  he  has  Ijond  fide  filled.  2d.  A  brother  who  is 
a  member  of  the  G.  Lodge  has  a  right  to  express  his  opinion  in 


372  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

any  subordinate  lodge,  but  has  no  right  to  vote  except  he  be  a 
member  of  the  lodge.  3d.  All  subordinate  lodges  are  to  pay  ten 
per  cent,  of  all  moneys  received  into  each  lodge,  for  the  support 
of  the  G.  Lodge  for  the  use  and  good  of  the  Order,  and  each  ]SL 
G.,  before  becoming  a  member  of  the  lodge,  must  bring  his  per- 
centage, with  his  books,  for  the  inspection  of  the  G.  Lodge, 
and  one  dollar  for  his  initiation  fee.  4th.  Each  and  every  ~N. 
G.,  on  leaving  the  chair,  after  having  duly  and  legally  filled 
the  same,  shall  take  his  station  on  the  right  of  the  &.  S.  of  the 
"N.  G.  elect,  so  that  he  may  be  ready  to  give  any  information 
to  the  ~N.  G.  of  anything  he  may  wish  to  know ;  and  the  N.  G. 
who  has  just  vacated  the  chair  is  entitled  to  the  privilege  of 
one  hour  after  the  lodge  is  opened,  without  being  subject  to  a 
fine." 

This  code  was  submitted  in  writing,  and  subscribed,  "  By 
order  of  the  G.  M.  of  the  United  States,"  and  signed  «  Thomas 
Wildey."  Where  G.  M.  Wildey  obtained  the  authority  to  pre- 
sent this  paper,  so  endorsed,  it  is  impossible  to  say.  It  was 
not  in  his  power,  or  that  of  the  G.  L.  U.  S.,  to  dictate  the 
adoption  of  these  resolutions,  under  any  law  then  or  since  in 
existence.  His  action  could  only  be  advisory,  and  must  have 
been  so  understood.  Yet  they  were  not  formally  adopted,  but 
taken  as  imperative  regulations  and  of  binding  force.  At 
all  events  they  were  submitted  to  as  the  only  rules  binding 
upon  the  brotherhood,  in  connection  with  the  existing  un- 
written ancient  usages.  The  third  section  was  strictly  adhered 
to,  and  was  the  means  by  which  a  treasury  came  into  existence. 
It  is  very  apparent  that  the  G.  Lodge  was  in  no  condition  to 
press  the  claims  of  the  Order  in  Mass,  or  elsewhere  in  New 
England.  Although  in  operation  since  June  llth,  1823,  no  con- 
stitution, general  laws  or  by-laws  seem  to  have  been  adopted  in 
the  interim.  The  organization  remained  stationary,  and  no  effort 
had  been  made  to  perfect  it  or  to  adapt  it  to  the  growing  num- 
bers of  members  and  lodges.  No  appearance  of  aggressive  action 
anywhere  exhibits  itself,  and  the  arrangement,  loose  in  all  its 
parts,  never  rises  to  the  dignity  of  even  attempted  system.  Wil- 
dey's  "  general  laws  "  were  indeed  a  very  godsend,  and  gave  to 
the  G.  Lodge  a  position  and  influence  which  it  had  not  before 


At  a  meeting  held  on  the  15th  of  August,  1825,  a  petition 
was  submitted  from  fourteen  members  of  Siloam  Lodge,  No.  2, 


THE   GRAND    LODGE    OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  373 

dated  July  18,  asking  leave  to  form  a  lodge  under  the  name  of 
the  American  Lodge  of  Odd  Fellows ;  but  as  there  was  some  dif- 
ficulty in  satisfying  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  proper  qualifications  of 
the  applicants,  the  petition  was  withdrawn.  It  was  signed  by 
Isaac  T.  Dupee,  Ellis  B.  Green,  Win.  C.  Jenkins,  E.  W.  Baxter, 
T.  K.  Hurlburt,  J.  S.  Slade,  Levi  Whitney,  Stephen  Titcomb, 
Isaiah  Stoddard,  Samuel  B.  Meacham,  Daniel  Prowse,  Edmund 
Longley,  William  Stearns  and  E.  B.  Nichols. 

But  a  more  effective  effort  was  made  on  the  2d  of  November, 

1826,  when,  on  the  petition  of  Richard  White  and  others,  a  char- 
ter was  granted  to  form  a  lodge  at  Taunton.     On  the  llth  of  De- 
cember the  G.  Lodge  met  at  that  place  and  proceeded  to  the 
"  Meeting  House  ";  a  sermon  was  preached  by  G.  Chaplain  Rev. 
J.  D.  Yates,  and  the  charter  was  presented  to  the  brethren  of  the 
Good  Samaritan   Lodge,   No.   3.      The  following  officers  were 
elected  and  installed:  Richard  White,  N.  G.;  Robert  Jackson,  Y. 
G.;  Jos.  G.  Charnley,  Sec.      The  warrant  was  in  the  usual  form, 
with   eight   colors   displayed   after  the   seal  of  the  G.  Lodge; 
the  sixth  and  eighth  colors  now  appear  to  be  the  same  (maza- 
rine blue),  though  possibly  the  latter  is  purple,  but  they  are 
both   so  faded  that  they  cannot  be  compared.      The  seal   is 
stamped  and  pasted  on,  and  the  device  is  not  sufficiently  legible 
to  be  deciphered.     Tha  Covenant  and  Remembrance  degrees  were 
conferred  upon  Bros.  White,  Jackson,  Charnley  and  Gannon,  of 
Taunton. 

On  the  31st  day  of  May,  1827,  the  G.  M.  issued  a  dispensa- 
tion to  open  a  lodge  in  Cambridge,  to  Theodore  Keating,  Thomas 
F.  Norris,  Simeon  South  wick,  Asa  Davis,  James  B.  Barnes,  George 
Johnston,  E.  H.  Wheelock,  Enoch  Robinson,  Thomas  Thompson, 
William  Hobson,  Joseph  Lopez  and  Richard  Dascomb.  These 
brethren  worked  under  this  authority  until  Friday,  July  21st, 

1827,  when  they  convened  at  Kendall's  hotel,  at  6  o'clock  I*.  M., 
for  the  reception  of  the  G.  Lodge,  on  an  official  visit  for  the  pur- 
pose of  investing  them  with  a  charter  and  installing  their  officers. 
A  procession  was  formed  at  6?  o'clock,  under  Bro.  Jenkins,  chief 
marshal,  assisted  by  Bros.  Rice,  Andrews  and  Reynolds,  and 
proceeded   to    the   Methodist    Chapel   in   the  following  order: 
Band  of  music,  members  of  other  lodges  and  their  officers,  mem- 
bers and  officers  of  the  G.  Lodge  and  their  banner,  the  New 
England  Lodge  with  two  banners  (the  most  ancient  one  of  which 


374  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

is  now  hanging  up  in  its  lodge-room).  On  arriving  at  the  chapel 
an  appropriate  anthem  was  snug  by  a  choir,  prayer  made  by 
Thomas  F.  Norris,  Chaplain  of  the  G.  Lodge,  closing  with  a 
hymn ;  after  which  Edmund  Badger,  G.  Sec.,  read  the  charter, 
and  the  G.  M.  installed  the  officers  of  the  New  England  Lodge, 
No.  4,  in  ample  form.  The  whole  ceremony  terminated  by  the 
singing  of  a  hymn,  an  oration  by  G.  M.  Hersey,  and  a  prayer  and 
benediction  by  the  G.  Chaplain.  The  procession  returned  to  the 
hotel  for  slight  refreshment,  and  after  another  inarch  partook  of 
a  formal  collation.  After  the  cloth  was  removed,  a  number  of 
toasts  were  drank,  interspersed  with  songs,  until  half-past  eleven 
o'clock,  when,  without  further  ceremony,  each  one  retired  in  good 
order.  The  following  is  a  list  of  the  officers  installed  on  the  occa- 
sion :  E.  H.  Wheelock,  N.  G.;  Theodore  Keating,  V.  G.;  James 
B.  Barnes,  W.;  Simeon  Southwick,  Sec.;  and  Thomas  Leighton, 
Treas.  This  was  the  first  public  installation  in  the  State,  and 
when  we  consider  the  growing  opposition  to  secret  societies,  then 
so  openly  expressed,  was  a  bold  vindication  of  the  Order  before 
the  public.  It  was  also  the  first  public  procession  of  the  Order 
in  Massachusetts,  and  as  such  excited  a  great  deal  of  comment 
from  the  townspeople.  The  newspapers  were  very  complimen- 
tary of  the  respectable  numbers  and  appearance  of  the  gathering. 
Under  such  auspices,  applications  for  membership  came  in  from 
some  of  the  best  inhabitants  of  the  town. 

On  the  5th  of  June,  1828,  a  dispensation  was  granted  to  M.  M. 
Staniels,  John  Newhall,  Aaron  Andrews,  Edward  Leeds,  William 
A.  Wild,  John  Cleveland  and  John  Reed,  to  open  a  lodge  at 
Roxbury.  The  G.  Lodge  held  a  special  session  at  that  place  on 
the  evening  of  June  28th,  1828,  when  a  charter  was  delivered  to 
these  brothers  for  Washington  Lodge,  No.  5.  The  subordinate 
lodge  was  then  opened  and  the  officers  were  installed  and  put  to 
work  by  the  G.  M.  This  was  followed  by  a  dispensation,  granted 
November  10th,  1828,  to  P.  G.'s  Josiah  Robinson,  John  Thom- 
son and  Joseph  Lopez,  and  brothers  Samuel  Harris  Hayward 
Charles  Euller  and  others,  to  open  a  lodge  in  Boston,  to  be  styled 
Adam  Lodge,  No.  6.  The  charter  was  duly  presented  on  Wed- 
nesday evening,  December  31,  1828.  The  lodge  convened  at  the 
hall  on  Ann  Street,  where  G.  M.  Dupee  and  his  officers  were  re- 
ceived by  the  members  rising  on  their  entrance.  The  G.  M.  took 
the  chair,  and  was  furnished  with  a  list  of  the  officers  elected. 


THE   GRAND    LODGE   OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  375 

whereupon  he  ordered  them  to  retire  to  the  anteroom,  with  the 
G.  Marshal,  for  examination.  Being  found  qualified,  they  were 
hrought  in  and  duly  installed,  as  follows :  P.  G.  James  1).  Yates 
as  N.  G. ;  Charles  Fuller,  Y.  G. ;  Louis  Pelouze,  Sec. ;  Josiah 
Robinson,  Treas. ;  and  Joseph  Lopez,  Warden. 

In  the  same  manner  a  dispensation  was  granted,  on  the  18th 
of  July,  1829,  to  P.  G.'s  William  Paul,  John  Bates,  William 
Howcroft,  and  certain  other  brothers,  to  open  a  lodge  in  Lowell. 
After  a  number  of  preliminaries,  growing  out  of  the  poverty  of 
the  petitioners,  who,  in  the  first  place,  wished  to  be  furnished 
with  regalia  and  have  all  the  expenses  paid  by  the  G.  Lodge, 
the  following  notice  was  inserted  in  a  newspaper : 

LOWELL,  September,  1829. 

Odd  Fellowship. — A  lodge  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd 
Fellows  will  be  opened  on  the  19th  inst.,  (Sept.)  at  the  Merrimac 
Hotel,  at  5  o'clock  P.  M.,  when  a  suitable  address  will  be  de- 
livered by  the  G.  M.  of  Mass.,  and  the  officers  elect  will  be  in- 
stalled, and  the  lodge  set  out  in  due  form,  agreeably  to  ancient 
usage  and  the  principles  of  the  institutiion.  By  order  of  the 
Committee  of  Arrangements. 

On 'the  day  appointed,  the  G.  Officers,  at  the  Merrimac  Hotel, 
formally  instituted  Merrimac  Lodge,  No.  7.  An  election  being 
held,  the  following  officers  were  duly  chosen  and  installed :  Wil- 
liam Paul,  !N".  G.;  John  Bates,  Y.  G.;  and  William  Howcroft, 
Sec.  This  Lodge  had  the  misfortune  to  lose  its  books  and 
papers,  and  we  cannot,  therefore,  furnish  the  details  of  its  history. 
The  facts  here  related  were  obtained  from  other  sources.  It  sus- 
pended work  in  1832,  and  was  reinstated  by  Wildey,  July  19th, 
1833.  The  G.  S.,  in  his  report  in  1833,  says:  "  On  the  17th  of 
September  I  arrived  at  Lowell,  and  had  the  pleasure  of  meeting 
with  many  of  the  old  members  of  Merrimac  Lodge,  as  well  as 
some  brothers  from  other  lodges.  Their  lodge  was  defunct,  but 
they  stated  that  they  would  be  much  pleased  to  be  again  re- 
opened, could  they  only  get  such  information  as  was  needed  from 
the  G.  L.  U.  S.  to  preserve  their  existence  and  connection  with 
other  lodges.  Their  complaint  in  regard  to  their  State  G.  Lodge 
w^as  similar  to  that  of  the  brothers  of  Taunton.  I  cannot  here 
omit  noticing  the  feelings  of  affection  and  respect  evinced  by 
the  brothers  of  this  lodge  towards  our  beloved  Order.  They  had 
used  every  effort  to  preserve  themselves  as  a  lodge,  but,  finding 


376  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

their  existence  no  longer  possible,  they  determined,  as  their  last 
sacrifice  to  Odd  Fellowship,  in  one  funeral  pile  to  destroy 
every  vestige  of  the  Order  which  was  not  convenient  for  them  to 
preserve.  Finding  them,  though  thus  disbanded,  still  zealous 
for  the  welfare  and  advancement  of  the  Order,  I  used  my  efforts,. 
and,  assisted  by  some  of  the  brothers,  obtained  a  meeting  of 
twenty  members,  to  whom  I  promised  the  protection  of  the  G. 
L.  U.  S.,  and  over  whom  I  installed  officers.  I  left  the  lodge  in 
effective  operation,  and  from  the  unremitted  perseverance  of  the 
officers  and  members,  I  think  we  may  anticipate  prosperity  to 
the  lodge." 

This  lodge,  under  the  impulse  given  by  "Wildey,  went  on 
working  for  about  three  years,  when  it  again  suspended  its  oper- 
ations. In  the  meantime  the  charter  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Mass, 
had  been  recalled.  No  doubt  the  final  blow  which  subverted 
the  Order  in  the  State,  came  from  the  legislature,  which,  on  the 
13th  of  March,  1833,  enacted  a  penal  statute  against  the  taking 
of  extra-judicial  oaths.  This  was  the  act  of  the  anti-Masonic 
party,  which,  originating  in  1826-7,  had  now  become  the  ruling 
element  in  many  of  the  States.  The  leading  details  of  this  party 
madness  have  been  set  forth  in  the  chapter  on  the  Degrees  and 
Encampment  branch.  Public  sentiment  was  turned  against  secret 
orders,  and  what  dissension  had  left,  was  now  scattered  and  dis- 
heartened and  ready  to  perish.  Under  this  cloud  the  sun  of  Mass. 
Odd  Fellowship  seemed  to  have  set  forever.  But  Lowell  was  yet 
alive,  and,  as  the  story  is  told  by  "Wildey,  was  making  a  desper- 
ate struggle  for  self-preservation.  Under  these  circumstances,. 
IS1".  G.  William  Paul  wrote  two  letters  to  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  of  the 
dates  of  May  14  and  July  13,  1834,  stating  the  legal  dilemma 
and  asking  the  advice  of  that  body.  This  was  furnished,  and 
the  following  was  promptly  sent  in  reply :  "  Resolved,  that  so 
loiiir  as*the  law  of  Mass,  relating;  to  illegal  oaths  remains  in 

c5  O  O 

force,  the  lodges  in  Mass,  be  authorized  to  admit  members,  confer 
degrees,  and  install  officers,  &c.,  on  the  pledge  of  honor,  and  that 
the  oath  be  dispensed  with."  The  letters  of  Bro.  Paul  had  an 
enclosure  of  $'20.00,  representing  the  percentage  of  $237.40  for 
the  quarter  ending  April  14,  1834,  the  real  amount  due  being 
$23.74.  But  in  spite  of  zeal  and  energy  on  the  part  of  Paul  and 
others,  the  lodge  was  discontinued,  and  did  not  reorganize  until 
October  11,  1S39.  From  that  hour  it  has  been  a  vigorous 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  37T 

lodge,  and  yet  holds  its  name  and  rank  in  Massachusetts  Odd 
Fellowship. 

Thus  seven  subordinate  lodges  were  in  successful  operation 
during  the  first  decade.  All  had  a  period  of  prosperity,  and 
some  were  full  of  promise,  but  the  evil  days  came  when  they 
went  down  in  a  common  wreck.  We  now  turn  to  the  career  of 
the  G.  Lodge  itself,  which,  by  reason  of  many  causes,  to  be  set 
forth,  was  not  only  totally  inefficient,  but  on  trial  proved  to  be 
the  weakest  point  in  the  whole  system.  It  is  true  the  taxes  and 
percentage  were  not  paid  by  the  lodges,  and  a  spirit  of  insub- 
ordination was  rife  among  the  brethren ;  but  these  will  be  found 
to  be  for  the  most  part  the  fault  of  the  G.  Lodge  itself.  In  1824r 
complaint  was  made  to  the  G.  L.  U.  S.,  to  which  G.  S.  Wildey 
replied  to  G.  Sec.  Bishop  as  follows : 

BALTIMORE,  October  17,  1824. 

Dear  Sir  and  Brother : — I  have  sent  to  G.  M.  Hersey,  by 
the  "  Two  Sons  of  Portland,"  a  package  of  documents,  among* 
which  you  will  find  some  remarks  for  your  two  subordinate 
lodges,  (Mass,  and  Siloam).  Let  nothing  be  wanting  from  the 
G.  Lodge  of  your  State  to  the  subordinate  lodges.  But  they 
must  understand  that  they  must  not  make  laws  to  suit  their  own 
purposes,  but  must  obey  the  orders  of  their  G.  Lodge.  They 
must  also  understand  that  they  must  pay  their  tenth  part,  else 
how  can  the  expenses  of  the  G.  Lodge  be  paid  ?  Each  P.  G.  is- 
required  to  pay  the  subordinate  lodge  to  which  he  belongs,  and 
in  consequence  the  G.  Lodge  must  receive  the  tenth  part.  Your 
G.  Lodge  ought  to  have  had  money  enough  to  pay  for  everything 
necessary  for  conferring  the  degrees  and  for  the  emblems  of  the 
Order.  In  short,  it  ought  to  have  money  in  funds  that  it  might 
assist  a  lodge  to  open  in  an  adjoining  town  as  you  increase  nu- 
merically. But  the  spirit  of  the  Order  seems  to  be  lost  with  you. 
I  hope  and  trust  that  some  persevering  character  will  be  found 
who  will  endeavor  to  make  the  Order  flourish  in  your  State,  and 
not  let  it  dwindle  away,  as  it  has  the  appearance  of  doing.  You 
must  do  away  with  partisan  feelings  and  stick  firmly  to  Odd 
Fellowship  alone. 

If  the  brothers  would  only  study  the  degrees  and  act  accord- 
ingly, there  would  be  fewer  disputes,  and  the  lodge  would  not  be 
turned  into  a  debating  society.  I  visited  your  State  with  the 
hope  of  finding  everything  going  on  in  a  comfortable  manner,  and 
my  disappointment  was  very  great.  My  expenses  and  my  trouble 
I  think  nothing  of;  I  only  wish  to  see  the  Order  flourish  on 
this  side  of  the  Atlantic.  It  is  all  I  crave  before  I  depart  this- 
life.  The  next  thing  is  my  visiting  England,  which  I  intend  do- 


378  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

ing  if  possible.  Nothing  would  give  me  greater  pleasure  than  to 
hear  of  your  State  going  on  amicably,  and  increasing  in  member- 
ship and  brotherly  love.  You  have  a  great  future  before  you,  if 
you  will  only  harmonize  your  conflicting  elements.  I  have  noth- 
ing more  to  add  at  present.  Give  my  best  respects  to  G.  M. 
Hersey  and  all  the  members  belonging  to  your  State,  of  the  Inde- 

¥endent  Order  of  Odd  Fellowship,  and  accept  the  same  yourself. 
Vom  your  humble  servant  and  brother. 

THOMAS  WILDEY,  G.  M.  of  the  U.  S. 

In  June,  1825,  Wildey  again  visited  Mass.  The  great  leader 
seemed  for  a  time  to  have  imparted  a  new  vitality.  The  conflict- 
ing elements  were  harmonized  by  the  presence  of  this  self-denying 
zealot  in  the  cause.  But  on  his  departure  the  discordant  elements 
broke  out  with  still  greater  violence,  and  disorder  reigned  supreme. 
The  G.  L.  had  only  a  spasmodic  existence,  with  intervals  in  which 
it  seemed  utterly  defunct.  It  would  institute  lodges,  indeed ;  but 
beyond  that,  seemed  to  have  no  settled  plan  or  object.  On  Feb- 
ruary 1st,  1827,  a  letter  was  received  from  Baltimore,  to  which  a 
reply  was  returned  by  G.  Sec.  Badger.  On  June  7th,  1827,  an 
election  of  officers  was  held,  writh  the  following  result :  William 
Bishop,  G.  M. ;  Josiah  Robinson,  D.  G.  M. ;  Isaac  T.  Dupee,  G. 
Sec. ;  Edmund  Badger,  G.  Warden  ;  and  B.  Simon,  G.  Treas.  On 
the  5th  of  July  William  Bishop  resigned  as  G.  M.,  and  Daniel 
Hersey  was  elected  to  fill  the  vacancy,  and  on  the  12th  he 
was  installed  by  the  Warden  and  Sec.  The  G.  Lodge  did  not 
meet  again  until  December  6th,  when  Bro.  Yates  occupied  the 
chair.  The  next  meeting  was  on  the  3d  of  January,  1828,  when 
Bro.  Dupee  was  installed  G.  Sec.  The  D.  G.  M.  elect  was  not 
installed,  as  he  had  not  settled  up  his  accounts  as  G.  Treasurer. 
This  election  was  so  unsatisfactory  that  the  members  refused  to 
.attend  in  numbers  sufficient  to  form  a  quorum. 

This  deplorable  state  of  affairs  was  set  forth  in  a  letter  from 
G.  Sec.  Dupee  to  G.  S.  Wildey,  of  the  date  of  April  28th,  1828. 
He  says  : 

Your  letter  of  March  7th  came  safely  to  our  M.  W.  G. 
Master.  At  a  meeting  of  the  G.  Lodge  on  Wednesday, 
April  9th,  it  was  read.  You  express  sorrow  at  the  misunder- 
standing among  the  members  of  our  G.  Lodge.  The  cause,  in 
part,  I  will  briefly  state.  At  our  yearly  meeting  Bro.  Hersey, 
the  then  G.  M.,  declined  being  ti  candidate.  Bro.  Bishop  was 
elected  G.  M. ;  Bro.  llobinson,  D.  G.  M. ;  and  myself,  G.  Sec 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  379 

For  some  unknown  reasons  Bro.  Bishop,  at  the  next  meeting,  de- 
clined to  be  installed,  and  resigned.  Bro.  Hersey  was  then  elected, 
and  the  next  week  was  installed.  The  D.  G.  M.  was  not  installed, 
no  settlement  having  been  made  with  him  as  Treasurer.  The 
year  for  which  they  were  elected  is  drawing  to  a  close.  Several  of 
our  very  small  number  stay  away,  some  holding  the  opinion  that 
one  of  the  officers  was  not  legally  chosen ;  others  are  vexed  to 
think  he  is  not  installed,  and  this  is  in  part  the  cause  of  our  trou- 
ble. The  package,  by  the  "  Two  Sons  of  Portland,"  was  never 
received.  We  have,  in  Boston,  two  lodges,  by  name  Massachu- 
setts and  Siloam ;  the  Mass,  is  rather  reduced,  and  is  anxious  to 
give  up  its  charter.  The  Siloam  has  about  120  members,  but  sel- 
dom gets  more  than  from  twelve  to  twenty  together.  There  are 
one  hundred  and  fifty,  or  more,  Odd  Fellows  in  Boston  who  belong 
to  no  lodge,  many  of  them  among  our  most  respected  citizens. 
They  took  their  discharge  at  different  times,  in  consequence  of 
the  continued  quarreling  among  the  members  of  the  subordinate 
lodges.  The  new  lodge  at  Taunton  is  doing  very  well,  and  likewise 
the  New  England  Lodge  at  East  Cambridge.  A  dispensation 
has  been  granted  for  a  lodge  in  Iloxbury,  by  name  Washington 
Lodge,  No.  5;  its  officers  will  be  installed  in  about  a  month.  A 
petition  has  been  presented  for  one  in  Charlestown,  by  the  name 
of  Adam.  Your  letter  bearing  date  March  8th  has  just  been 
received,  likewise  the  one  with  the  package  by  the  "William  Wal- 
lace." Since  we  have  commenced  receiving  the  percentage, 
which  is  about  two  years,  our  receipts  have  been  small,  as  there 
Lave  not  been  many  initiations.  The  amount  now  in  our  Trea- 
surer's hands  may  be  twenty  dollars.  We  have  notes  against  the 
Taunton  and  Cambridge  lodges,  which  will  probably  be  paid  as 
soon  as  they  feel  able.  lTou  mention  nothing  in  your  last 
about  visiting  us  ;  we  hope  you  have  not  given  up  the  idea,  your 
presence  here  might  be  of  immense  use  to  us. 

Yours,  &c.,  in . 

P.  S. — From  the  above  communication  you  will  perceive  that 
we  are  at  a  loss  to  know  upon  what  principle  our  present  G. 
Lodge  now  acts.  We  wish  to  have  your  opinion  respecting  the 
legality  of  the  present  officers,  and  especially  the  G.  M.  At 
pn.sent  all  is  confusion.  The  proceedings  of  the  G.  Lodge  during 
the  four  years  of  Brother  Hersey's  office  were  not  regularly  kept, 
and  but  a  few  of  them  during  the  last  year.  The  papers  and 
letters  belonging  to  the  Order  are  in  the  hands  of  every  one, 
scattered  throughout  the  jurisdiction.  It  would  be  well  to  send 
direct  to  the  G.  Lodge  here  and  require  a  copy  of  its  annual 
report,  or  any  other  proceedings  you  may  think  proper;  in  fact, 
they  have  none.  It  is  high  time  something  should  bo  done,  for 
the  G.  Lodge  cannot  stand  upon  its  present  footing.  You  must 
be  decisive  in  what  you  do,  and  require  prompt  answers  to  your 
letters.  You  know  with  what  silent  contempt  they  have  always 
treated  vour  communications. 


380  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

To  this  very  plain  statement  of  the  case  the  G.  S.  replied  as 
follows : 

BALTIMORE,  June  18th,  1828. 
To  P.  G.  Josiah  Robinson  : 

DEAR  SIR  AND  BROTHER. — I  received  the  letter  which  you 
sent  through  the  hands  of  Mr.  J.  L.  Darn.  I  am  sorry  to  be 
obliged  to  make  so  many  complaints,  but  what  else  can  I  do  ? 
Unless  I  can  be  on  the  spot,  it  is  plain  to  be  seen  that  there  is  no- 
one  who  will  act.  I  have  done  more  for  your  State  than  for 
either  of  the  others,  and  it  would  give  me  pleasure  to  do  as  much 
more.  You  will  please  let  my  communications  to  your  G.  Sec. 
be  read  in  open  G.  Lodge.  If  they  do  not  open  the  eyes  of  your 
refractory  members,  I  do  not  know  what  will.  It  is  impossible 
for  me  to  visit  your  State  at  present.  My  visits  to  your  State  and 
the  other  States  were  made  at  my  own  expense.  My  visit  to 
England  was  at  my  own  expense ;  all  of  which  I  should  not  mind 
if  I  was  a  wealthy  man.  But  that  is  nothing  to  the  time  I  have 
sacrificed  for  the  good  of  the  cause.  I  have  been  for  nearly  ten 
years  a  complete  slave,  and  I  feel  that  it  is  time  for  me  to  rest. 
The  brother  that  succeeds  me  will  give  up  before  the  first  year 
expires  if  he  does  the  work  I  have  done.  I  desire  to  see  the 
States  all  right  and  prospering  before  I  retire  from  office.  I  hope 
you  will  endeavor  to  spur  the  minds  of  those  who  ought  to  come 
forward ;  if  they  will  only  take  a  little  trouble,  one  year  will 
settle  all  your  difficulties,  and  you  cannot  help  but  nourish.  I 
will  do  all  in  my  power  to  assist  you.  Please  accept  my  earnest 
wishes. 

THOMAS  WILDEY,  G.  Sire. 

The  situation  was  indeed  worse  than  has  been  yet  depicted. 
Quite  a  number  had  before  this  time  concluded  to  withdraw  and 
Bet  up  an  independent  G.  Lodge.  This  was  evidenced  by  a 
solemn  paper  duly  signed  by  the  parties ;  but  they  were  soon  dis- 
couraged, and  having  signed  an  equally  solemn  renunciation  of 
the  project,  they  dropped  back  again  into  their  seats  without 
question  or  censure.  Nothing  could  more  decisively  prove  the 
utter  helplessness  and  hopelessness  of  the  G.  Lodge  than  the  per- 
mission granted  to  commit  such  daring  acts  of  stupidity  and  re- 
bellion. On  June  28th,  the  package  by  the  "  Two  Sons  of 
Portland"  came  to  hand,  of  which  notice  was  given  to  the  G.  S.,. 
and  he  replied  as  follows  : 

BALTIMORE,  July  2d,  1828. 

To  the  G.  M.,  D.  G.  M.,  Officers  and  Brothers  of  the  State  of 
Massachusetts. 

RESPECTED  BRETHREN. — I  received  your  last  letter-,  dated 
June  21st,  which  gave  me  great  satisfaction.  I  hope  by  this  time 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  381 

my  letters  have  given  every  satisfaction  to  the  subordinate 
lodges.  Don't  lay  them  aside,  but  keep  them  in  the  archives, 
and  let  them  be  read  more  than  once,  so  that  the  members  may 
have  their  contents  firmly  planted  in  their  minds.  It  was  with 
feelings  painfully  acute  that  I  was  under  the  necessity  of  stating 
the  nature  of  the  conduct  of  those  who  were  looked  up  to  for  in- 
formation. They  cannot  be  so  destitute  of  feeling  as  to  forget 
the  sacred  nature  of  the  obligations  they  are  bound  to  obey.  I 
entertain  the  hope  that  they  will  hereafter  apply  themselves  to 
the  business  of  our  institution,  adhere  to  its  principles,  and  obey 
its  laws,  and  thereby  regain  the  confidence  of  the  brethren  and 
the  esteem  of  all  good  Odd  Fellows.  It  affords  me  great  joy  that 
you  have  chosen  your  officers,  and  I  hope  ere  this  they  are  in- 
stalled. I  trust  they  will  do  their  duty.  Those  only  who  study 
the  principles  and  act  their  part  in  the  true  sense  of  the  word 
-can  feel  the  same  friendly  emotions.  As  to  the  Mass.  Lodge,  it 
must  meet  only  in  the  place  at  which  the  charter  was  granted, 
unless  permission  is  given  by  the  G.  Lodge ;  the  charter  must 
not  be  taken  from  place  to  place.  If  the  membership  falls  so  low 
in  numbers  that  they  are  obliged  to  resign  the  charter,  they  had 
better  do  so  and  join  the  Silo  am.  I  am  of  the  opinion  of  Bro. 
Robinson  that  a  visit  to  Boston  again  would  be  worth  the 
expense ;  if  the  delinquents  should  hear  that  an  officer  was 
coining  on  they  may  pay  up  their  arrearages,  especially  the 
members  of  Mass.  Lodge.  Send  me  word  when  you  write  again 
about  the  Encampment.  In  conclusion,  permit  me  to  assure  you 
of  my  sincere  respect  and  brotherly  attachment  for  your  members, 
and  my  best  wishes  for  your  present  and  future  welfare.  Believe 
ine,  respected  brothers,  yours, 

THOMAS  WILDEY,  G.  Sire. 

But  these  efforts  were  of  no  avail,  so  that  on  the  7th  of  May, 
1829,  arrangements  were  made  by  the  G.  Lodge  to  purchase  the 
effects  of  Siloam  Lodge,  and  also  to  receive  all  books,  papers,  and 
keys  belonging  to  Mass.  Lodge.  The  committee  to  settle  with  New 
England  Lodge  had  not  been  able  to  find  the  lodge  in  session,  and 
were  informed  that  no  settlement  would  be  made  while  the  present 
Grand  Master  held  the  chair.  But  the  G.  Sire  was  not  idle,  and 
by  a  letter  of  the  9th  of  May  urged  the  G.  Lodge  to  pay  some 
attention  to  what  was  passing  in  the  G.  L.  IT.  S.  He  also  gives 
directions  for  the  expected  application  for  a  lodge  in  Rhode 
Island,  and  requests  at  least  seven  names  to  be  sent  to  him  for 
insertion  in  a  charter  for  an  Encampment  for  Mass. 

In  June,  1829,  the  G.  Lodge  elected  and  installed  the  follow- 
ing officers :  Josiah  Robinson,  G.  M. ;  Edmund  Badger,  D.  G. 


382 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


M. ;  John  Thomson,  G.  "W. ;  J.  D.  Yates,  G.  Sec. ;  and  Daniel 
Hersey,  Treas.  In  July  a  great  event  occurred,  in  the  arrival  of 
the  Movable  Committee,  composed  of  G.  S.  Wildey  and  P.  G. 
M.  Small  of  Pennsylvania.  On  the  8th  of  July  the  distin- 
guished visitors  were  received,  with  the  honors,  in  the  body  of 
the  G.  Lodge.  Under  their  direction  meetings  were  successively 
held  on  10th,  llth,  and  14th  July,  and  everything  was  harmoni- 
ous. The  members  mutually  agreed  to  live  in  peace  ;  the  feud 
with  the  G.  Master  was  apparently  settled,  and  provision  was 
made  for  paying  what  was  due  to  the  Supreme  Body.  The  re- 
port of  the  Movable  Committee  was  not  made  until  September, 
1830 ;  it  says :  "Your  Committee  then  visited  Mass.,  and  on  their 
arrival,  found  the  State  in  great  confusion  and  disorganization. 
There  was  no  G.  M.,  and  no  meetings  of  the  G.  Lodge,  and  ap- 
parently no  person  to  give  information.  In  this  aspect  of  affairs 
your  Committee  waited  on  P.  G.  Robinson,  whom  we  ascertained 
had  been  elected  G.  M.  some  .months  previously.  The  Grand 
Lodge  was  convened  the  next  day,  when  your  Committee  in- 
formed them  of  the  object  of  their  mission,  and  spoke  at  large 
upon  their  condition ;  having  discovered  it  to  be  of  a  nature  that 
required  the  most  urgent  consideration.  Every  regulation  of  the 
Order  had  been  neglected  and  nothing  enforced.  There  was  no 
money  in  the  treasury,  nor  in  those  of  the  subordinate  lodges  in 
the  vicinity  of  Boston.  A  large  sum  remained  due  for  rent,  and 
almost  every  member  appeared  as  Treasurer,  or  as  having  acted 
as  such.  Your  Committee  waited  on  as  many  as  they  could  find, 
and  discovered  that  some  had  given  and  paid  away  more  money 
than  they  had  received.  Others  were  of  the  opinion  that  they 
had  money  in  their  hands,  but  did  not  know  how  much,  as  no  ac- 
counts had  been  kept  and  the  books  could  not  be  procured. 
Confusion  existed  in  every  department ;  and,  in  sending  to  Taun- 
ton  for  the  percentage,  the  expenses  of  the  person  sent  to  collect 
it  amounted  to  more  than  was  due.  No  person  was  acting  as 
head,  nor  was  any  willing  to  unite  in  enforcing  the  regulations 
of  the  Order.  In  this  state  of  things  your  Committee  determined 
to  place  every  member  on  an  equality  in  station,  and  leave  them 
to  select  such  as  would  attend  to  the  duties  required.  A  resolu- 
tion was  adopted,  requiring  those  who  had  money  in  their  posses- 
sion to  pay  it  over  to  the  G.  Lodge,  and  that  in  future  the  per- 
centage should  be  required  to  be  remitted  with  the  necessary 


ALBERT  GUILD. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  383" 

report.  It  was  requested  that  the  G.  M.  and  members  should 
zealously  co-operate  in  advancing  the  interests  of  the  Order.  They 
promised  your  Committee  to  retain  all  moneys  that  should  be 
received  by  the  G.  Lodge,  to  send  to  the  G.  S.  to  liquidate  the 
debt  due  by  them  to  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  A  bond  for  the  amount  of 
the  debt  was  taken  by  your  Committee,  who  received  every  assur- 
ance that  it  would  be  speedily  paid.  They  pledged  themselves 
to  sustain  the  interests,  and  to  secure  the  approbation  of  the  Order 
at  home  and  abroad.  Your  Committee  opened  an  Encampment, 
which  was  received  with  the  highest  satisfaction.  They  would 
give  it  as  their  opinion  that  no  State  presents  a  more  ample  field 
for  the  cultivation  of  Odd  Fellowship  than  Mass.,  and  by  proper 
exertions  an  abundant  harvest  might  be  gathered  in.  The  evils 
existing  are  to  be  attributed  entirely  to  neglect,  no  State  having 
more  excellent  members  or  better  men." 

The  G.  Lodge  was  very  liberal  on  the  occasion  of  this  visitr 
having  paid  the  expenses  of  the  Committee,  and  at  a  special  ses- 
sion, held  August  13th,  1829,  voted  the  thanks  of  the  member- 
ship to  the  pacificators.  This  effort  of  reconciliation  seems  to- 
have  exhausted  the  vitality  of  the  brethren  to  such  an  extent 
that  no  record  appears  of  another  meeting  until  November,  1830, 
when  Bro.  Dupee  was  elected  G.  Sec.  in  an  informal  way,  and 
he  and  Bro.  Andrews  were  deputized  to  look  up  the  effects  of  the 
G.  Lodge.  These  were  reported  to  be  contained  in  a  trunk  in  the 
possession  of  Bro.  James  Yates,  and  the  trunk  being  brought,  it 
was  opened,  and  no  lodge  property  found.  Subsequently  charges 
were  brought  against  Yates  for  this  spoliation,  and  he  was  ex- 
pelled. In  the  midst  of  this  decadence  P.  G.  Albert  Guild  en- 
tered the  body,  on  the  12th  of  May,  1831. 

ALBERT   GUILD. 

Albert  Guild  was  born  in  Sharon,  Connecticut,  on  the  30th 
of  August,  1798.  When  an  infant,  his  parents  removed  to  Ohio, 
and  took  up  a  permanent  residence  in  Trumbull  county.  The 
State  was  then  but  a  Territory,  not  being  admitted  until  1802. 
At  twenty-one  years  of  age  he  had  obtained  the  rudiments  of  an 
education,  and  improved  upon  it  by  studious  habits  and  a  love 
for  books.  The  spirit  of  adventure  was  abroad,  and  young 
Guild  was  full  of  the  energy  which  was  characteristic  of  the 


384  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

pioneers  of  the  West.  Having  conceived  the  idea  of  visiting 
Massachusetts, 'he  set  out  on  foot  to  make  the  journey,  with  a 
bundle  of  clothing  on  his  back  and  twenty-five  cents  in  his 
pocket.  His  journey  through  a  wild  and  rough  country  was 
marked  by  many  adventures  and  was  sometimes  full  of  peril. 
He  eked  out  his  expenses  by  farm-work,  and  by  prescribing  for 
simple  diseases,  as  he  had  acquired  a  superficial  knowledge  of 
the  healing  art.  Thus,  in  course  of  time  he  reached  Boston, 
having  increased  his  cash  capital  from  twenty-five  cents  to  one 
dollar  by  the  way.  Here  he  studied  medicine,  and  managed  to 
live  until  he  obtained  a  practice  sufficient  to  pay  his  current  ex- 
penses. During  six  years  so  spent  he  was  quite  successful,  but 
was  obliged  to  retire  from  business  by  the  failure  of  his  health. 
He  then  became  a  dental  doctor,  and  followed  that  occupation 
for  five-and-forty  years.  Several  of  his  patients  were  members 
of  Adam  Lodge,  No.  6,  and  easily  persuaded  him  to  become  an 
Odd  Fellow.  Among  those  whom  he  knew  in  the  Order  was  P. 
G.  M.  Hersey. 

He  entered  Adam  Lodge  somewhere  between  June  and  De- 
cember, 1829;  his  name  first  appears  on  the  minutes  on  the  2d 
of  December  of  that  year.  Bro.  Guild  on  the  23d  of  December 
was  elected  Sec.  of  the  lodge,  and  was  installed  on  the  6th  of 
January,  1830.  On  the  2d  of  June  he  was  elected  V,  G.,  and 
was  chosen  K.  G.  on  the  3d  of  February,  1831.  But  as  no  one 
could  be  found  to  act  as  Sec.  he  resigned  his  office,  and  took  that 
place  on  the  6th  of  April.  He  faithfully  discharged  this  duty 
until  the  lodge  ceased  to  exist,  on  the  21st  of  March,  1832.  As 
before  stated,  he  became  a  member  of  the  G.  Lodge  on  the  12th 
of  May,  1831.  In  September  he  was  named  Sec.  pro  tern.,  and 
on  the  19th  of  October  was  elected  G.  Sec.  He  held  this  place 
until  the  charter  of  the  G.  Lodge  was  resigned,  in  September, 
1833.  On  the  happening  of  that  sad  event,  the  property  and 
effects  of  all  kinds  of  the  Order  were  gathered  as  sacred  relics, 
and  transferred  to  his  residence,  58  Hanover  Street.  Here  as- 
sembled the  last  of  the  old  guard,  and  a  division  by  lot  was 
made  of  the  fragments  among  Brothers  Albert  Guild,  Aaron 
Andrews,  and  Eben  Smith,  to  be  held  in  trust  until  the  Order 
should  again  require  them.  Under  these  auspices  this  faithful 
brother  did  not  despair,  but  above  all  others  believed  in  the  res- 
urrection of  the  cause.  In  the  nine  years  of  darkness  that  set- 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  385 

tied  down  upon  the  Order,  he  alone  kept  up  a  correspondence 
with  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  and  the  great  leader,  waiting  patiently  for 
the  hour  when  Mass,  should  kindle  afresh  the  fires  of  fraternity 
and  scatter  the  light  over  all  New  England. 

In  April,  1811,  Bro.  Guild  would  wait  no  longer,  but  called 
in  P.  G.  Aaron  Andrews  to  confer  with  him  for  the  restoration 
of  the  Order.  A  petition  was  drawn  up  for  the  reinstatement  of 
Mass.  Lodge,  No.  1,  signed  by  these  two  brothers,  who,  after 
much  difficulty,  obtained  the  signatures  of  Bros.  Barnes,  Hersey 
and  Smith.  A  room  was  engaged  at  the  Shawmut  House,  on 
Hanover  Street,  where  the  five  met  on  the  llth  of  June,  1811. 
While  in  session,  they  were  astonished  to  learn  of  the  arrival  of 
P.  G.  Sire  Wildey  in  the  city.  The  great  leader  was  again 
on  the  soil  of  Mass,  with  the  firm  design  of  replanting  the 
institution  among  the  survivors  of  the  pioneers  in  that  State. 
The  five  might  well  be  excited,  and  delighted  also,  at  such  a  coin- 
cidence ;  and  we  do  not  wonder,  when  Wildey  entered  the  room, 
.at  the  exclamation  of  Guild,  "  There  is  the  finger  of  Providence  in 
this,  and  we  shall  succeed."  Massachusetts  Lodge  was  in  this  way 
revived  on  the  22d  of  June,  1811,  which  was  followed  by  the  re- 
establishment  of  the  G.  Lodge  by  G.  S.  John  A.  Kennedy,  on 
December  23d  in  the  same  year. 

Bro.  Guild  was  not  unrewarded ;  he  was  made  G.  Sec.,  and 
became,  by  election,  the  first  Rep.  from  his  jurisdiction  who  ever 
;sat  in  the  G.  L.  IT.  S.  G.  S.  Kennedy  does  not  forget  this  brother 
in  his  report  of  the  late  events  in  Mass.  He  says :  "  The  course 
of  the  G.  Lodge  is  deserving  of  special  notice,  for  the  commend- 
able spirit  in  which  they  have  reinstated  Daniel  Hersey  in  the 
office  of  G.  M.,  and  Albert  Guild  in  that  of  G.  Sec.  The  long 
and  valuable  services  of  these  brethren  in  the  cause,  fitted  them 
peculiarly  for  those  important  stations  in  a  jurisdiction  destined 
to  be  second  to  none."  G.  Rep.  Guild  was  the  sole  member 
from  his  State  in  1812,  and  had  Hersey  for  his  colleague  the  next 
year.  In  the  latter  year  he  was  a  member  of  the  Committee  on 
the  State  of  the  Order,  and  ranked  well  in  his  influence  upon  leg- 
islation. On  retiring  he  was  appointed  District  D.  G.  S.  for 
Mass.,  Rhode  Island  and  New  Hampshire.  After  he  accepted 
this  dignity  he  did  not  continue  to  act  as  G.  Sec.  As  D.  D.  G. 
S.,  Bro.  Guild  spared  neither  time  nor  money  in  the  cause  in  New 
England.  To  him  particularly  is  due  the  new  birth  of  1811,  and 
25 


386  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Mass,  has  not  been  ungrateful  for  his  services.  Those  who  knew 
him  at  this  time  and  afterwards,  will  bear  testimony  to  his  energy 
and  perseverance,  his  easy  and  kindly  manner,  his  dignity  and 
purity  of  character,  which  impressed  all  observers  with  his  sin- 
cerity as  a  man  and  his  usefulness  as  a  brother  Odd  Fellow. 

But  we  turn  from  this  digression  to  the  history  of  the  original 
G.  Lodge  of  Mass.,  where  we  left  it  in  1831.  At  this  time  Bro. 
Hersey,  being  Treasurer,  made  himself  individually  responsible 
for  the  rent  of  the  hall,  and  had  legal  process  served  on  him  for 
its  collection.  Under  these  circumstances  he  took  possession  of 
all  the  property  belonging  to  the  G.  Lodge  until  he  was  secured 
against  the  debt  he  had  incurred.  This  continued  until  March 
8th,  1832,  when  Hersey  was  superseded  as  Treas.  by  Eben  Smith. 
After  this  there  was  but  one  meeting,  on  the  5th  of  April  follow- 
ing, at  which  nothing  was  done.  And  so  the  sad  scene  of  gra- 
dual extinction  was  enacted,  and  when  the  charter  was  taken 
away,  in  September,  1833,  it  was  only  the  formal  act  indicative 
of  a  long-past  cessation  of  lodge  existence.  The  effort  made  by 
Wildey  in  reinstating  Adam  Lodge,  No.  6,  and  Merrimac  Lodge, 
No.  7,  in  this  year,  under  the  immediate  jurisdiction  of  the  G.  L. 
U.  S.,  was  a  mere  ripple  on  the  surface,  as  they  passed  away  again, 
in  a  few  short  months.  Odd  Fellowship,  as  an  Order,  was  extinct,, 
and  no  power  could  then  more  than  galvanize  it  into  a  semblance 
of  vitality. 

The  failure  of  Odd  Fellowship  in  Mass,  was  a  foregone  con- 
clusion. The  theory  of  its  working  was  totally  inconsistent  with 
success.  It  never  was,  during  its  first  period,  more  than  a  loose 
collection  of  individuals,  and  lodges  with  no  common  bond  of 
union.  The  membership  was  heterogeneous,  but  among  them 
were  many  of  nature's  noblemen.  But  these  were  confronted  and 
beset  by  some  of  the  most  troublesome  and  mischief-making  men 
in  the  State.  This  was  the  fact  everywhere  at  that  time,  and 
Mass,  was  not  alone  in  the  possession  of  unworthy  Odd  Fellows. 
In  Maryland  they  were  held  in  check,  and  whenever  they  became 
troublesome  were  at  once  excluded.  Wildey,  located  in  Mass., 
would  have  built  up  the  Order  on  a  basis  too  firm  to  have  been 
shaken.  His  magnetism  would  have  united  the  better  elements, 
and  his  popularity  made  it  easy  to  discard  the  marplots,  who 
ought  to  have  been  expelled  in  the  first  instance.  Maryland  was 
saved  by  the  personal  rule  of  Wildey,  under  the  guidance  of  the 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    MASSACHUSETTS.  387 

most  intelligent  of  the  membership.  By  consent  of  all  he  became 
the  common  arbiter.  Without  him  no  step  was  taken.  He  was 
also  wellnigh  ubiquitous.  Every  lodge  was  visited  by  him  con- 
stantly, and  every  member  looked  to  him  for  instruction.  Dis- 
sension was  frowned  down  as  the  blackest  treason,  and  but  little 
mercy  was  shown  to  those  who  were  forgetful  of  solemn  vows. 
Under  such  influences,  opposition  was  crushed  out,  and  such  as 
would  not  be  harmonious  were  forced  ignominiously  to  retire. 
Again,  Baltimore  wras  the  centre  of  the  growing  system  of  organ- 
ization. Every  movement  was  in  furtherance  of  the  plan  which 
had  Maryland  for  its  ulterior  object.  Here  was  the  great 
charter  of  American  Odd  Fellowship,  as  well  as  the  great  Odd 
Fellow  from  England.  It  followed  that  law  and  order  were  the 
subjects  of  the  profoundest  concern,  and  the  assembled  wisdom 
of  the  best  men  gave  importance  and  dignity  to  the  laws  en- 
acted. Maryland,  so  favored,  could  not  fail.  But  Massachu- 
setts had  no  such  advantages.  No  one  man  rose  so  high  as  to 
master  the  situation  and  control  the  experiment.  The  coun- 
try had  but  one  such  man — THOMAS  WILDEY.  Nor  did  Massa- 
chusetts, like  Pennsylvania,  organize  into  system,  and  by  inflexible 
adherence  to  written  law,  lay  deep  foundations  for  their  struc- 
ture. 

We  read  nowhere  of  the  adoption  of  a  G.  Lodge  constitution, 
of  general  laws,  or  of  efforts  to  improve  the  code  of  ancient 
•usage.  There  was  no  fealty  to  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  by  the  G.  Lodge, 
and  none  by  the  subordinate  lodges  to  their  G.  Lodge.  The 
whole  effort  was  that  of  individuals,  and  the  G.  Lodge  was  treated 
more  as  an  expedient  than  the  supreme  power  in  the  State.  It 
was  the  old  English  plan  on  American  soil,  and  met  the  fate  of 
that  plan  wherever  tried,  in  disintegration  and  confusion.  The 
true  men  knew  not  what  to  do,  and  instead  of  combining  for  self- 
protection,  for  the  most  part  retired.  Such  as  remained  were 
harassed,  and  at  length  worn  out  and  defeated  by  the  arrogance 
of  conceited  upstarts.  They  also  at  length  retired,  bearing  the 
tattered  ensigns  of  the  Order,  and  holding  fast  the  confidence  of 
good  and  valiant  men. 

At  least  one  hundred  and  fifty  of  such,  in  Boston  alone,  were 
silently  biding  their  time ;  and  when  the  better  day  dawned, 
came  forth  to  place  the  Old  Bay  State  in  the  van  of  American 
Odd  Fellowship.  At  the  revival,  the  Order  was  reduced  to  sys- 


388  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

tern,  and  that  system  was  well-known  and  practised.  Personal 
government  and  individual  effort  were  supplanted  by  a  potent 
organization.  The  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  had  become  a  power  in 
the  land,  and  the  working  of  the  institution  was  confined  within 
the  limits  of  wise  and  useful  legislation.  Massachusetts  entered 
again  upon  her  work,  as  a  partner  in  a  constitiitional  arrangement 
which  at  once  appealed  to  her  heart  and  head.  She  needed  no 
training,  but  at  once  took  her  place  as  the  head  of  the  New  Eng- 
land family.  How  she  did  this,  is  written  on  the  pages  of  her 
career,  which  has  been  proud  and  prosperous.  Emerging  from 
the  obscure  contentions  of  her  early  efforts,  she  has  since  moved 
on  in  unbroken  harmony,  and  nowhere,  in  Odd  Fellowship,  is 
there  a  purer  record  or  a  brighter  future  for  the  principles  of 

FRATE-RiUTY. 


TREMONT   AND    BERKLEY   STS.    AND   WARREN    AV.,    BOSTON,    1871. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

ODD   FELLOWSHIP    IN    NEW   YORK. 

The  history  of  Odd  Fellowship  in  New  York,  during  the  first 
decade,  is  not  easy  of  narration.  What  is  known  is,  for  the 
most  part,  taken  from  the  writings  of  Past  Grand  Sire  John  A. 
Kennedy.  This  eminent  brother  appears  in  this  book  in  the 
chapter  on  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland.  But  he  is  only  inci- 
dentally introduced  in  that  chapter,  as  he  belongs  to  a  later  period 
than  that  embraced  in  this  work.  Led  by  him,  we  begin  the 
story  of  Odd  Fellowship  in  New  York,  with  the  independent 
efforts  made  at  an  early  day  to  plant  the  institution  in  that  State 
by  the  process  of  self-institution.  Odd  Fellows'  lodges  had  their 
origin  in  England,  and  their  idea  was  no  doubt  borrowed  from 
the  ancient  "guild."  The  congregation  of  workmen  in  cities 
during  the  middle  ages,  to  escape  military  service,  and  to  find 
safety  from  feudal  tyranny,  led  to  associations  of  tradesmen  and 
mechanics  for  mutual  advantage  and  protection.  These  in  time 
obtained  permanent  charters,  securing  their  rights  and  granting 
them  peculiar  immunities.  Each  mechanical  trade  had  its  sepa- 
rate charter,  and  these,  organized  into  one,  formed  powerful 
bodies.  The  city  or  town  hall  of  London,  as  the  seat  of  these  as- 
sociations in  that  great  capital,  is  to  this  day  called  "  Guild  Hall." 
These  guilds  have  each  its  system  of  dues  and  benefits  and  laws, 
for  the  succor  of  brother  workmen  on  travel  or  in  distress.  It 
seems  very  probable  that  in  a  later  day  the  tradition  of  these 
guilds  yet  lingered  among  workmen,  and  that  Odd  Fellowship 
sprung  from  a  rude  imitation  of  such  institutions. 

But  another  element  organized  the  movement.  The  -early 
lodges  were  organized  by  the  landlords  of  beer-houses,  and  mainly 
in^their  interest.  The  Hierophant  or  high  priest  was  known  as 
mine  HOST,  who,  in  return  for  the  revenue  furnished,  made  his 
disciples  happy  with  refreshments.  These  consisted  of  beer  and 
tobacco.  The  revenue  was  made  up  by  a  small  sum  collected  on 
the  Warden's  axe  at  the  opening,  or  by  the  Secretary,  before  the 

(389) 


390  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

member  was  seated  in  the  lodge.  Visitors  also  paid  their  share, 
and  a  newly  initiated  member  had  to  pay  a  score  for  all  who 
were  present.  These  extras  enabled  the  host  to  furnish  the 
meeting  room  and  to  supply  light  and  fuel.  The  business  was 
mostly  conducted  under  the  proposition  of  "harmony."  This 
consisted  of  a  recess  from  lodge  work,  in  which  singing  and  reci- 
tations were  in  order,  and  the  mug  and  pipe  gave  zest  to  the  con- 
vivial hour.  The  benefits  of  the  Order  were  limited  to  giving 
temporary  aid  to  a  brother  on  tramp.  At  every  meeting  the 
formal  question  was  asked,  "  Is  there  any  tramp  in  waiting  ?" 
If  a  traveler  wras  present,  he  was  admitted  and  relieved.  There 
was  no  treasury,  but  each  brother  placed  his  small  tribute  on  the 
Warden's  axe,  and  made  the  stranger  welcome. 

This  was  what  came  to  this  country  with  the  emigrant  Odd 
Fellows.  Prior  to  the  year  1800,  some  of  these  meetings  had  as- 
sumed the  name  of  "  Independent."  What  meaning  this  had  we 
do  not  know,  but  suppose  it  very  proper  to  call  any  or  all  of  them 
"  independent,"  for  they  were  isolated  and  had  no  organic  rela- 
tions with  each  other.  The  first  known  Odd  Fellows  in  this 
country  consisted  of  Solomon  Chambers  and  his  sons,  John  C. 
and  William  E.  Chambers,  who  landed  in  New  York  in  the  year 
1805  or  1806.  They  came  from  Southwark,  London,  England, 
and  wTere  builders  of  row-boats,  in  which  the  sons  were  successful. 
The  father  returned  to  London  in  1808,  and  died  soon  afterwards. 
Solomon  and  his  son  John  were  members  of  the  Loyal  Westmin- 
ster Independent  Lodge  of  Odd  Fellows,  held  at  the  tavern  on  the 
Broad  Sanctuary,  near  the  Abbey,  known  as  the  Westminster 
Arms,  kept  by  a  certain  Robert  Cuthbertson.  Both  the  father  and 
son  passed  the  chairs  in  this  lodge,  the  former  being  Noble  Grand 
in  1801  when  his  son  William  was  initiated.  John  was  a  fine  vo- 
calist, and  was  presented  by  the  brothers  with  a  silver  medal,  which 
descended  to  his  son  Thomas,  now  residing  in  New  York  city.  The 
first  lodge  in  this  country  was  instituted  on  the  23d  of  December, 
1806,  by  Solomon  and  his  two  sons,  John  Meyer,  Thomas 
William  Heelas,  William  Twaites,  Benjamin  Warry,  William 
Westphall,  and  Thomas  Hodgkinson,  the  last  named  being 
the  HOST.  The  lodge  was  named  "  Shakspeare,"  after  the 
tavern  No.  17  Fair  (now  135  Fulton)  Street,  of  which  the  host 
was  the  proprietor.  The  chief  officers  were  Solomon  Chambers, 
N.  G.;  John  C.  Chambers,  Y.  G.;  John  Meyer,  Secretary ; 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    NEW    YORK.  391 

Thomas  Win.  Heelas,  "W.  The  office  of  Conductor  was  not  men- 
tioned. This  self-instituted  lodge,  after  many  changes,  was  dis- 
continued after  the  meeting  of  September  20th,  1813,  at  the 
dwelling-house  of  William  Moore,  No.  59  Yesey  Street.  The 
property  of  the  lodge  was  taken  possession  of  by  P.  G.  William 
Moore,  who  retained  it  until  the  lodge  was  re-opened  on  the  23d 
of  December,  1818,  by  Past  Grand  William  Moore,  and  Brothers 
Thomas  Hilson,  Hopkins  Kobinson,  and  James  Pritchard  of  the 
old  membership,  and  Robert  C.  May  wood  and  George  Singleton. 
Each  of  these  was  connected  either  as  actor  or  vocalist  with 
the  Park  Theatre,  except  William  Moore. 

About  the  second  week  in  January,  1819,  George  P.  Morris 
and  Adam  C.  Flanagan  were  initiated.  Both  of  these  were 
young  journeyman  printers  and  under  age,  but  the  usage  in  force 
allowed  members  to  be  received  at  eighteen  years  of  age,  and 
sometimes  earlier.  Morris  soon  passed  the  chairs  and  became  a 
member  of  the  Committee  of  Past  Grands,  which  was  but  a  feeble 
body.  But  he  was  ambitiously  inclined,  and  induced  the  lodge  to 
take  a  larger  title.  The  young  printers  brought  in  a  pamphlet  with 
the  imposing  title-page  of,  "Constitution  and  By-Laws  of  the 
Shakspeare  Grand  Lodge  of  Odd  Fello\vs.  Instituted  December 
23d,  1806  ;  Kevived,  December  23d,  1818.  New  York :  Printed 
by  G.  Singleton.  1819."  The  name  and  the  new  laws  were 
adopted,  but'  no  improvement  was  perceptible  by  reason  of  the 
-change.  Shakspeare  Lodge  continued  in  operation  until  1821, 
when  its  meetings  finally  ceased.  Before  its  extinction,  Morris 
and  his  friends  withdrew,  and  opened  a  lodge  on  the  27th  of 
January,  1821,  at  the  house  of  Edmund  Mahaney,  No.  89  (now 
No.  156)  Nassau  Street.  The  new  society  was  called  Franklin 
Lodge,  No.  2,  of  Independent  Odd  Fellows,  and  Bro.  Morris 
became  the  first  Noble  Grand.  This  lodge  worked  very  well  for 
about  two  years,  and  started  two  others,  one  by  the  name  of 
Washington  Lodge,  No.  3,  at  No.  37  Bowery,  in  November,  1821 ; 
and  the  other,  in  Brooklyn,  on  the  3d  of  January,  1822,  at  No. 
49  Main  Street,  styled  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  4.  The  former  of 
these  closed  up  in  six  months,  the  latter  continued  to  exist,  and, 
in  time,  obtained  the  authority  for  a  legal  organization. 

Early  in  1822  there  were  two  irregular  lodges  in  existence, 
Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2,  and  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  4.  Columbia 
Lodge  had  the  advantage  of  a  number  of  members  from  the 


392  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

"West  of  England,  who  had  been  instructed  in  the  work,  which 
was  then  being  improved  by  the  Manchester  Unity.  These  were 
not  long  in  seeking  a  legal  affiliation  with  the  mother  Order.  At 
their  instance  a  suitable  application  was  sent  to  Liverpool,  where 
it  was  presented  to  the  Duke  of  Sussex  Lodge,  Xo.  2,  of  "  Inde- 
pendent Odd  Fellows,"  and,  on  November  l<±th,  1822,  a  dispen- 
sation was  duly  granted.  The  instrument  was  received  by  the 
lodge  in  January,  1823,  with  the  number  in  blank,  which  they 
filled  with  the  unit  1,  instead  of  the  number  4  by  which  they 
were  previously  known.  Before  the  paper  had  reached  the 
brethren,  they  had  removed  the  lodge  from  Brooklyn  to  the  house 
of  Bro.  James  Lovett,  sign  of  "Eclipse  and  Sir  Henry,"  Xo.  270 
Grand  Street,  New  York.  It  was  here  that  the  lodge  accepted, 
and  began  to  work  under  the  charter  received  from  Liverpool. 
This  done,  they  at  once  claimed  supremacy  as  the  only  legal 
lodge  in  the  State.  A  contest  at  once  arose  between  the  two 
lodges,  which  was  both  acrimonious  and  persistent.  This  wa>  in 
the  early  part  of  June,  1823,  when  Benjamin  Downing  was  X. 
G.  of  Franklin  Lodge,  and  Russell  Watts  X.  G.  of  Columbia 
Lodge.  It  was  in  the  midst  of  this  angry  controversy  that 
Grand  Master  Wildey,  on  his  route  to  organize  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  Massachusetts,  made  his  appearance  among  the  brethren. 

'CIIABTER  OF  COLUMBIA  LODGE. 

INDEPENDENT  ORDER  OF  ODD  FELLOWS. 

This  Dispensation  and  these  presents,  granted  from  the 
Loyal  Beneficent  Duke  of  Sussex  Lodge,  of  Independent  Odd 
Fellows,  Xo.  2,  of  the  Liverpool  District,  held  at  the  house  of 
brother  James  Whittaker,  Regent  Tavern,  Scotland  Place,  in 
the  town  of  Liverpool,  in  the  County  Palatine  of  Lancaster, 
in  the  United  Kingdom  of  Great  Britain  and  Ireland,  to  five 
brothers  of  the  said  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  to  enable 
them  to  open  and  establish  a  lodge,  under  the  title  of  the 
Columbia  Lodge,  iXo.  — ,  to  be  held  at  the  house  of  brother 
James  Claridge,  X~o.  49  Main  Street,  Brooklyn,  Long  Island,  Xew 
York,  United  States.  This  Dispensation  and  these  prer-ents  are 
not  to  be  altered  or  amended  without  the  consent  of  the  officers 
and  brothers  of  the  Loyal  Philanthropic  Liverpool  District  Grand 
Lodge,  Xo.  1,  of  Independent  Odd  Fellows,  as  well  as  of  the 
officers  and  brothers  of  the  above  mentioned  Loyal  Beneficent 
Duke  of  Sussex  Lodire.  Xo.  2.  of  the  Liverpool  District.  It  is. 
hereby  enjoinfed  that  tho  brothers  of  the  Columbia,  Lodge  meet 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    NEW    YORK.  39$ 

at  such  times,  and  upon  such  conditions,  as  are  expressed  in  the 
by-laws  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows ;  and  that  they 
do,  upon  oath,  see  that  this  Dispensation  and  these  presents  be 
not  altered  or  destroyed  ;  that  they  do  not  initiate  a  person  into 
this  our  Order,  for  a  less  sum  than  the  laws  (presented  to  them 
with  this  Dispensation,  by  the  said  Beneficent  Duke  of  Sussex 
Lodge)  express,  so  that  the  lodge  and  Order  may  be  kept  truly 
respectable ;  that  they  do  not  open  any  other  lodge  of  this  Order 
without  the  Consent  of  the  aforesaid  Grand  Lodge ;  and  that 
they  do  appoint  officers  in  the  said  lodge  to  execute  these  pres- 
ents. In  consideration  of  the  sum  of  two  pounds  and  two 
shillings,  to  be  remitted  to  the  said  Beneficent  Duke  of  Sussex 
Lodge,  for  this  Dispensation.  It  is  agreed,  that  the  officers  and 
brothers  of  the  Columbia  Lodge  shall  not  deviate  from  the  prin- 
ciples of  the  Grand  Lodge;  and  that,  should  any  dispute  arise, 
so  as  to  cause  a  matter  in  question,  in  said  Columbia  Lodge, 
which  they  cannot  conveniently  settle,  they  shall  refer  the  same 
to  a  Committee  of  Past  Grands  to  settle  and  do  justice  to  the 
parties  concerned  in  the  said  matter  in  question  ;  and  that  the  offi- 
cers and  brothers  of  the  said  Columbia  Lodge  shall  comply  witk 
this  Dispensation  and  these  presents,  and  observe  and  conform 
themselves  strictly  to  the  laws  of  the  Independent  Order  of  Odd 
Fellows,  according  to  the  purport,  principle,  true  intent  and 
meaning  thereof.  It  is  also  agreed,  that  the  brothers  of  the  said 
Columbia  Lodge,  by  and  with  the  consent  of  the  Liverpool  Dis- 
trict Grand  Lodge,  (hereby  given)  shall  elect,  appoint  and 
authorize,  (from  time  to  time),  fit  and  proper  persons  as  officers, 
to  put  in  execution  and  enforce  a  due  observance,  (as  aforesaid)^ 
of  the  laws  and  regulations  of  the  Independent  Order ;  and, 
should  they,  (the  brothers  of  the  said  Columbia  Lodge),  hereafter- 
wish  to  remove  the  Lodge,  they  shall  show  sufficient  cause  for 
such  removal.  Lastly,  it  is  agreed,  that  if  at  any  time  hereafter 
it  should  happen  that  the  said  Columbia  Lodge  should  be  de- 
stroyed by  fire  or  otherwise,  the  said  Beneficent  Duke  of  Sussex 
Lodge,  or  any  other  lodge  of  the  Independent  Order,  shall  relieve 
their  distress  in  case  of  necessity.  Granted  the  fourteenth  day 
of  November,  one  thousand  eight  hundred  and  twenty-two,  by 
the  parties  concerned  in  these  presents,  who  have  hereunto  sub- 
scribed their  names  and  affixed  the  seal  of  the  Liverpool  District, 
as  witness: 

N.  G.,  John  Dodgson ;  Y.  G.,  Eobert  Buhner ;  Sec.,  John 
Ackers ;  G.  M.,  James  Clarke ;  C.  Sec.,  George  Bradgate ;  and 
thirteen  P.  G.  M.'s  and  P.  G.'s. 

Wildey,  as  before  narrated,  found  Franklin  and  Columbia 
Lodges  engaged  in  a  vigorous  contest  for  the  supremacy.  The 
situation  reminded  him  forcibly  of  the  condition  of  the  Order  in 
Maryland  during  the  first  two  years  of  its  existence.  He  arranged 


AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

to  meet  the  members  of  the  two  lodges  on  the  following  day  (June 
4th),  at  the  house  of  Bro.  Grover,  No.  147  Grand  Street,  where 
Franklin  Lodge  held  its  meetings.     At  the  time  indicated,  repre- 
sentatives of  both  lodges  were  present,  but  there  was  no  regular 
lodge  meeting,  by  reason  of  the  mutual  jealousy  of  the  parties. 
Finally  it  was  agreed  that  Wildey  should  preside  over  them  as  an 
informal  meeting  of  Odd  Fellows.     He  took  the  chair,  and  made  a 
similar  statement  to  that  made  by  him  in  Philadelphia.    Although 
he  enforced  his  suggestions  by  suitable  arguments,  they  were 
of  no  avail.     The  members  of  both  lodges  refused  to  treat  with 
the  chairman  until  he  should  express  an  opinion  of  the  validity 
of  the  dispensation  granted  to  Columbia  Lodge.     As  a  question 
of  policy  it  was  well  calculated  to  test  the  capacity  of  a  man  of 
more  experience  than  the  Grand  Master;  if  he  decided  against  it 
he,  in  effect,  brought  his  own  charter  in  peril,  which  had  been 
granted  in  the  same  way ;  if  he  decided  for  it,  he  might  raise  up 
a  rival  with  as  valid  a  claim  as  his  own.     But  he  did  not  regard 
the  consequences,  and  at  once  saw  where  the  merit  of  the  ques- 
tion lay.     After  calm  consideration  he  pronounced  the  document 
"  a  legal   and   authorized   charter."     The  members  of  Franklin 
Lodge  left  the  room  for  consultation,  and  it  was  arranged  to  meet 
again  in  the  same  place  that  evening ;  but  when  the  time  came, 
only  one  member  of  Franklin  Lodge,  Benjamin  Downing,  theN. 
G.,   appeared.     He  announced,  in  behalf  of  his  members,  that 
they  would  neither  consent  to  a  reconciliation  nor  enter  into  any 
arrangement  of  compromise ;  they  were  determined  never  to  re- 
cognize  as  valid  the  charter  of  Columbia  Lodge.     The  N.  G., 
however,  remained  at  the  meeting.     It  was  then  decided  to  ap- 
ply to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States 
for  a  dispensation  for  a  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  of  New  York. 
The  Grand  Master  thereupon  received  the  application,  and  an- 
nounced that  the  warrant  would  bear  date  from  that  day  (June 
4th,  1823).     He  then  instructed  the  qualified  members  who  were 
present,  in  the  degrees  of  the  Order.     This  was  so  satisfactory 
as  evidence  of  the  advanced  proficiency  of  the  Order  in  Maryland, 
that  they  were  easily  induced  to  go  further  in  the  same  direction. 
Columbia  Lodge,  therefore,  agreed  to  surrender  its  dispensation  to 
the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the  United  States,  and  to 
receive  a  free  charter  in  lieu  thereof,  bearing  even  date  with  the 
'Grand  Lodge  warrant.     The  Grand  Master  omitted  to  give  in- 


BENJAMIN  DOWNING 


ODD  FELLOWSHIP  IN  NEW  YORK.  395 

structions  with  regard  to  the  formal  application  to  be  made  to 
Baltimore,  and  in  the  excitement  the  matter  was  referred  to  the 
Noble  Grand  of  the  Lodge.  We  shall  narrate  the  further  pro- 
ceedings by  these  brothers  when  we  shall  have  given  particular 
attention  to  the  N.  G.  of  Franklin  Lodge. 

BENJAMIN    DOWNING. 

As  before  stated,  this  brother  was  the  only  member  of  Frank- 
lin Lodge  who  remained  after  Wildey  had  given  his  decision  in 
favor  of  Columbia  Lodge.  He  was  born  at  Stamford,  Connecti- 
cut, March  10th,  1781.  At  the  age  of  11  he  was  put  as  an  ap- 
prentice to  a  man  named  Tillou,  in  New  York,  and  remained 
with  him  three  years,  when,  in  consequence  of  ill  usage,  he  left, 
and  found  his  way  to  Newport,  Rhode  Island.  From  that  and 
several  other  places  he  made  voyages  to  foreign  ports.  During 
the  embargo  in  1807  he  was  in  England,  and  there  made  the 
.-acquaintance  of  Odd  Fellows.  It  was  at  Harwich,  in  the  south- 
east part  of  England,  that  he  was  initiated  in  the  Duke  of 
York  Lodge,  on  the  10th  of  January,  1808.  His  reception  as 
a  member  indicates  the  loose  manner  in  which  the  affairs  of  the 
Order  were  at  that  time  conducted.  He  was  simply  a  denizen 
of  the  country,  and  had  no  fixed  residence ;  but  this  was  no  ob- 
stacle. He  afterwards  wandered  over  the  country,  supporting  him- 
self by  chair-making,  which  was  his  trade.  His  story,  as  related 
by  himself,  was  eventful.  Sometimes  he  was  wretchedly  desti- 
tute, and  had  no  place  in  which  to  lay  his  head.  His  greatest 
peril  was  from  the  press-gangs ;  once  he  was  captured,  but  found 
means  of  escape.  To  avoid  them  he  was  compelled  to  hide  away 
and  seek  shelter  in  the  most  secret  places.  In  all  his  troubles 
he  had  the  countenance  and  aid  of  the  brotherhood.  Sometimes, 
when  hungry  and  foot-worn,  he  entered  a  provincial  city  a  home- 
less tramp.  On  such  occasions  he  rarely  failed  to  find  a  lodge  of 
Odd  Fellows,  and  in  his  woful  plight  sought  their  assistance.  His 
testimony  is  conclusive  as  to  the  fraternal  conduct  of  the  brethren. 
They  placed  him  in  the  most  comfortable  chair  and  made  him 
welcome.  The  foaming  mug  was  always  presented,  and  his  body 
refreshed  with  the  invigorating  beer.  He  was  then  usually  re- 
quested to  retire  for  an  interval,  and  when  recalled,  was  presented 
with  a  fraternal  donation,  which  had  been  collected  on  the  War- 


396  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

den's  axe.  At  times  they  went  further ;  a  committee  found  him 
supper  and  lodging,  and  in  the  morning  paid  his  fare  on  the  stage 
to  his  next  stopping  place.  At  length  he  found  the  means  of  leav- 
ing that  country.  He  shipped  on  board  a  vessel  bound  for  St. 
John's,  New  Foundland,  and  in  due  time  reached  that  port.  Here 
he  was  again  in  danger  of  impressment,  but  was  protected  by  the 
owner  of  the  vessel,  who  was  an  Odd  Fellow.  He  did  more,  for 
wishing  to  visit  Boston,  and  finding  the  embargo  raised,  he  char- 
tered a  vessel,  and,  taking  Downing  on  board,  in  due  time  arrived 
at  that  city.  Here,  presenting  him  with  some  money  and  a  suit 
of  clothes,  they  parted,  and  Downing  found  his  way  to  New  York, 
after  an  absence  of  eight  years.  Surely  this  narrative,  even  if 
somewhat  overstating  the  facts,  is  strong  in  its  evidence  that  the 
early  Odd  Fellows  were  loyal  and  true  to  each  other  in  a  remark- 
able degree.  We  doubt  not  that  a  history  of  the  early  lodges 
would  be  found  full  of  such  incidents,  and  that  the  Order  was 
then,  as  now,  a  blessing  to  the  poor  and  afflicted,  as  well  as  a. 
bond  of  unity. 

Downing' 8  return  was  in  the  year  1809.  In  the  same  year 
he  married  and  settled  in  Rhode  Island.  Here  he  engaged  in 
the  coasting  trade,  and  was  often  in  New  York  city.  He  had 
not  been  able,  after  many  inquiries,  to  find  Odd  Fellows  in  his- 
rambles,  although  he  had  often  heard  them  spoken  of  as  existing 
in  the  country.  What  he  did  hear  was  not  by  any  means  to  their 
advantage.  But  at  length  he  met  with  more  success.  He  wa& 
sitting  in  a  bar-room  in  New  York,  when  he  heard  some  person  use 
the  phrase,  "  Noble  Grand.''  He  was  at  once  attentive,  and  soon 
learned  of  the  existence  of  the  Order  in  that  city.  He  applied,  and 
was  admitted  to  membership,  and  took  a  leading  part  in  his  lodge. 
When  Wildey  arrived  at  New  York  Downing  was  Noble  Grand 
of  Franklin  Lodge,  and  was  the  only  member  who  submitted 
to  the  decision  which  proclaimed  his  lodge  irregular.  He  did 
not  join  in  the  application  to  Baltimore  for  a  charter,  but  was- 
present  at  the  opening  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  New  York  as  one  of  its 
members.  His  memoir,  published  in  the  American  Odd  Fellow,. 
7th  vol.  127,  does  not  state  the  facts  correctly.  He  asserts  that  it 
was  Franklin  Lodge  and  its  members  that  organized  the  Wildey 
movement,  when  the  contrary  appears,  see  Journal  57.  The  fact 
is  that  Franklin  Lodge  at  first  held  aloof,  but  finally  surrendered 
its  organization  and  was  merged  in  Columbia  Lodge.  On  the  5th 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    NEW    YORK.  397 

of  November,  1825,  he  joined  Columbia  Lodge,  and  when  in  the 
city  was  a  regular  attendant  upon  its  meetings.  Here  he  remained 
until  1830,  when  he  was  often  absent,  and  gave  but  little  atten- 
tion to  the  Order  until  1840.  In  1872  he  was  a  member  of  Co- 
lumbia Lodge,  and  resided  at  Yonkers,  New  York.  "We  believe 
that  he  afterwards  went  to  the  "Western  country,  and  may  yet  be 
living.  He  is  once  mentioned  in  the  proceedings  of  the  G.  L. 
U.  S.,  Journal  83,  as  requesting  a  warrant  for  Providence,  R.  L, 
and  the  Secretary  was  authorized  to  instruct  him  how  to  proceed 
to  obtain  it.  This  seems  to  explain  a  statement  in  his  memoir, 
that  G.  S.  Wildey,  when  at  Boston,  gave  him  an  irregular  warrant 
to  institute  the  Order  in  that  State.  At  all  events  he  was  of  the 
old  stock  of  sterling,  yet  wandering  mechanics,  who  never  un- 
derstood the  new  movement. 

His  story  is  instructive,  telling  us  of  the  old  methods  and  of 
the  singular  men  who  used  them.  Of  these  he  was  a  good  type. 
True  and  firm  to  his  colors,  he  never  resigned  the  Order,  but  held 
fust  his  confidence,  and  became  an  honored  veteran  in  the  cause. 
In  his  life  he  was  tried  by  every  form  of  poverty  and  distress,  and 
always  found  help  in  Odd  Fellowship.  No  taint  ever  attached 
to  his  character,  and  we  may  well  name  him  as  one  of  the  ancients 
of  whom  none  need  be  ashamed. 

But  we  return  to  the  action  of  the  New  York  brethren,  which 
followed  their  interview  with  G.  S.  Wildey.  A  correspondence 
was  at  once  opened  with  the  Baltimore  brethren,  which  resulted 
in  a  formal  application  for  a  Grand  Lodge  charter.  The  Grand 
Committee  met  on  the  15th  of  June,  1823,  and  resolved  unani- 
mously, "  That  a  charter  be  granted  as  prayed,  and  that  the  Grand 
Lodge  be  located  in  the  city  of  New  York."  This  instrument 
was  immediately  prepared  and  transmitted  to  New  York,  to  await 
the  return  of  Wildey  from  Massachusetts.  In  due  time  he  made 
his  appearance,  and  on  the  evening  of  June  24th,  1823,  met  the 
Past  Grands  at  the  house  of  Bro.  James  Lovett,  at  No.  279  Grand 
Street.  Those  present  were  John  B.  Robinson,  James  Simister, 
James  Claridge,  John  Grant,  and  Russell  Watts.  The  Grand 
Master  then  read  the  following : 
CHARTER  OF  THE  GRAND  LODGE  OF  NEW  YORK. 

ORDER  OF  INDEPENDENT  ODD  FELLOWS. 

To  all  whom  it  may  concern  :  The  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland 
and  of  the  United  States,  by  authority  of  a  Grand  Charter,  granted 


398  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

by  the  Duke  of  York  Lodge,  held  in  the  borough  of  Preston,, 
County  Palatine  of  Lancaster,  England,  doth  hereby  grant  thi& 
Grand  Charter  to  five  Past  Grands  of  the  Order  of  Independent 
Odd  Fellows,  residing  in  the  State  of  New  York,  to  form  a  Grand 
Lodge  for  the  said  State,  for  the  encouragement  and  support  of 
brothers  of  the  said  Order  when  on  travel  or  otherwise.  And 
the  said  Grand  Lodge,  being  duly  formed,  is  hereby  authorized 
and  empowered  to  grant  Warrants  or  Dispensations  to  true  and 
faithful  brothers,  to  open  lodges  according  to  the  laws  of  Odd 
Fellowship,  and  to  administer  to  the  Past  Grands  all  the  privi- 
leges and  benefits  appertaining  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  to  enact 
by-laws  for  the  government  of  their  lodge.  Provided,  always, 
that  the  said  Grand  Lodge  do  act  according  to  the  order,  and  in 
conjunction  with  and  obedience  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
United  States,  adhering  to  and  supporting  the  constitution 
thereof.  In  default  thereof  this  charter  may  be  suspended  or 
taken  away,  at  the  decision  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United 
States.  And  further,  the  Grand  Lodge  (in  consideration  of  the 
due  performance  of  the  above)  do  bind  themselves  to  repair  all 
damages  or  destruction  of  the  Charter,  whether  by  fire  or  other 
accident;  provided  proof  be  given  that  there  is  no  illegal  con- 
cealment or  wilful  destruction  of  the  same.  In  witness  whereof, 
we  have  displayed  the  colors  of  our  Order,  and  subscribed  our 
names  and  affixed  the  seal  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and 
of  the  United  States,  this  fourth  day  of  June,  A.  D.  one  thous- 
and eight  hundred  and  twenty-three. 

THOMAS  WILDEY,  G.  M. 

JOHN  WELCH,  D.  G.  M. 
r         -,  THOMAS  MITCHELL,  G.  W. 

JOHN  PAWSON  ENTWISLE,  G.  S. 

JOHN  BOYD,  G.  G. 

WILLIAM  LARKAM,  G.  C. 

Past  Grands : 

DUNCAN  McCoRMiCK,  THOS.  SCOTCHBURN, 

JAMES  SEED,  WILLIAM  WILLIAMS, 

JOHN  NELSON,  WILLIAM  ANSTICE, 

WILLIAM  TONG. 

After  the  reading  of  the  charter,  G.  M.  Wildey  proceeded  to- 
obligate  the  Past  Grands  in  due  and  ancient  form.  The  follow- 
ing officers  were  then  elected  and  installed :  John  B.  Robinson, 
Grand  Master ;  James  Simister,  Dep.  Grand  Master;  John  Grant, 
Grand  Warden  ;  and  James  Claridge,  Grand  Secretary.  Russell 
Watts  was  appointed  and  installed  as  Grand  Guardian.  The 
charter  was  then  delivered  into  the  possession  of  the  Grand  Lodge. 
A  committee  was  immediately  appointed  to  report  a  constitutioa 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    NEW    YORK. 

and  by-laws,  but  no  such  documents  have  been  found.     It  is  pre- 
sumed that  they  were  never  reported.     The  immediate  effect  of 
this  action  was  the  dissolution  of  Franklin  Lodge.     The  Grand 
Lodge,  therefore,  commenced  operations  with  but  one  subordi- 
nate^ to  which  there  was  no  addition  for  the  space  of  two  years 
and  a  half.     In  December,  1825,  a  charter  was  granted  to  Friend- 
ship Lodge,  No.  2,  located  at  the  small  manufacturing  village  of 
Pleasant  Valley,  in  Duchess  County.     This  lodge,  however,  never 
amounted  to  such  importance  as  to  be  at  any  time  represented  at 
a  session  of  the  Grand  Lodge.     The  membership  was  limited  to 
operatives  in  a  cotton  mill,  to  which  class  the  lodge  seemed  to  be 
closely  restricted.     The  charges  for  institution  and  the  lecture 
books  for  this  lodge  were  not  paid  for  in  the  first  instance,  a  lib- 
eral credit  being  granted.     But  within  eighteen  months  after  the 
opening,  the  leading  members  solemnly  protested  against  this 
debt,  and  in  the  name  of  ancient  usage,  questioned  the  right  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  to  the  exercise  of  its  just  authority.     The  lodge 
not  only  failed  to  contribute  to  the  support  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
but  by  a  singular  inconsistency  appealed  from  the  payment  of 
taxes  to  the  Grand  Sire.     This  appeal  was  an  able  paper,  which 
must  have  been  prepared  by  some  one  superior  to  those  whom  it 
represented.     The  answer  to  this  paper  was  a  strong  defence  of 
legitimate  authority,  but  it  failed  to  impress  the  membership  with 
a  sense  of  the  false  position  they  had  taken. 

LETTER   FROM    MEMBERS    OF    FRIENDSHIP    LODGE,    NO.     2,    TO    GRAND 

SIRE    WILDEY. 

PLEASANT  VALLEY,  DUCHESS  COUNTY,  K.  YORK,  June  29th,  1827. 
Sir : — We,  the  undersigned,  in  our  private  capacity,  address 
you,  fully  confident,  from  your  high  standing  and  private 
worth,  that  an  answer  will  be  extended.  We  are  members  of  the 
same  Order  as  yourself,  have  the  same  fellow-feelings  for  our 
brethren,  and  are  strenuous  supporters  of  the  Independent  Order 
of  Odd  Fellows,  are  members  of  the  Friendship  Lodge,  at  Pleas- 
ant Valley,  in  the  State  of  New  York.  Our  lodge  has  been  organ- 
ized about  18  months,  has  been  truly  successful,  and  is  still  doing 
well.  Our  present  communication  is  for  the  purpose,  if  possible, 
of  aiding  and  assisting  in  the  re-establishment  of  our  Order  in  its 
original  purity,  and  in  accordance  with  its  name,  viz :  the  Inde- 
pendent Order  of  Odd  Fellows.  We  have  been  very  lately  sub- 
jected to  an  impost  which  we  think  does  not  in  any  way  corres- 
pond with  the  title  "  Independent,"  we  mean  the  subjecting  of 


400  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

our  lodge  and  others  to  an  annual  tax  of  ten  per  cent,  on  our 
receipts  to  the  Grand  Lodge  for  the  support  of  the  same.  Your 
late  visit  to  England  has  convinced  you,  no  doubt,  that  no  such 
impost  is  there  exacted.  Why,  therefore,  is  it  here  ?  Are  we,  as 
American  Odd  Fellows,  less  independent  than  our  brethren  in 
Britain  ?  Why  then  should  our  Grand  Lodge  assume  the  right 
to  collect  this  tax  ?  seeing  that  it  is  altogether  inconsistent  with 
the  very  spirit  of  the  Order,  which,  if  conducted  on  true  first 
principles,  is  likely  to  stand  second,  nay  first,  in  the  estima- 
tion of  the  citizens  of  these  States.  But  for  us  to  be  independent, 
we  should  be  really  so,  without  the  idea  of  being  tributary  to  any 
lodge  whatever.  That  the  co-operation  of  every  member  is  ne- 
cessary to  support  the  laws  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  we  grant ;  pro- 
vided the  Grand  Lodge  be  formed  of  delegates  from  the  lodges  of 
the  State  in  which  they  may  be  located.  But  for  a  Grand 
Lodge,  in  its  strength,  without  the  assent  of  the  lodges  within  its 
jurisdiction,  to  assume  to  dictate  law,  collect  tenths,  and  do  other 
business,  without  even  the  presence  or  concurrence  of  the  repre- 
sentatives of  our  lodges,  is,  in  our  opinion,  derogatory  to  the  true 
interests  of  the  Order ;  and  unless  our  Order,  in  its  wisdom,  makes 
such  alterations  and  amendments  for  the  satisfaction  of  the  fra- 
ternity (or  a  majority),  we  are  fearful  it  cannot  attain  the  full 
measure  of  its  worth.  We  do  not  express  these  views  with  the 
design  of  creating  divisions,  strifes,  &c.,  among  us ;  bat  we  believe 
that  a  crisis  is  not  far  distant,  when  the  steadfastness  of  every 
member  will  be  required  to  prevent  division  and  discord  in  the 
Order.  Another  subject  we  wish  to  bring  to  your  attention,  viz : 
the  right  of  subordinate  lodges,  by  the  consent  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  State  or  district  (as  the  case  may  be),  to  grant  char- 
ters and  open  lodges,  they,  the  subordinates,  receiving  the  emol- 
uments. 

We  perceive,  by  our  charter,  that  we  are  not  allowed  to  open 
lodges,  and  that  the  Grand  Lodge  assumes  the  right,  exclusively, 
of  opening  lodges  and  retaining  the  fees.  If  we  are  correctly 
informed  by  a  visiting  European  brother,  charters,  such  as  are 
held  by  the  Grand  Lodges  in  the  United  States,  are  given  to 
every  lodge  in  Europe,  and  therefore  cannot  give  the  powers  ex- 
clusively claimed  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  or 
of  the  different  States.  We  therefore  presume  that  the  construc- 
tion which  retains  the  sole  power  in  the  different  Grand  Lodges, 
is  unconstitutional  and  inconsistent  with  the  spirit  of  our  institu- 
tion. A  reference  to  your  charter  from  the  Duke  of  York 
Lodge  at  Preston  will,  we  presume,  convince  you  that  what  we 
here  state  is  correct. 

On  the  subject  of  communications  between  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  the  United  States  and  those  of  the  different  States,  something 
is  wanting.  We  have  only  one  notice  from  our  Grand  Lodge 
for  more  than  six  months,  (except  the  one  relating  to  the  tenth), 


ODD  FELLOWSHIP  IN  NEW  YORK.  401 

and  are  entirely  ignorant  of  the  progress  of  the  Order.  Some- 
times we  hear  of  a  lodge,  here  and  there,  but  even  that  is  acci- 
dental. A.  system  of  interchange  between  our  lodges,  for  the 
information  and  prosperity  of  all,  is  of  importance.  As  before 
stated,  we  are  determined  supporters  of  the  laws,  and  wish  for 
the  co-operation  of  every  independent  Odd  Fellow.  Thus, 
having  s'tated  some  of  our  opinions,  having  in  view  the  wel- 
fare of  the  fraternity,  and  hoping  for  the  promotion  of  the  in- 
terests of  the  Order  generally,  and  of  every  member  in  particu- 
lar, we  subscribe  ourselves  respectfully  yours, 

BENJAMIN  OWEN,  JEREMIAH  CLEARWATER, 

JAMES  BEAD,  JOHN  ATKIN, 

JAMES  KAY. 

As  before  related,  this  letter  was  promptly  answered.  It  was 
signed  by  William  Williams,  Grand  Secretary,  and  was  instruc- 
tive upon  all  the  points  in  which  these  crude  Odd  Fellows  were 
defective.  It  closed  by  turning  them  over  to  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  New  York,  and  disclaiming  any  power  to  interfere  on  the 
part  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States.  At  the  same 
time  a  letter  was  written  to  the  Grand  Master  of  New  York, 
calling  attention  to  Friendship  Lodge  and  the  complaints  of  its 
members.  The  letter  reproves  the  Grand  Master  for  not  having 
forwarded  information  to  the  subordinates,  so  that  no  occasion 
should  be  given  to  trouble  the  supreme  authority  on  the  part 
of  the  lodges.  It  closes  with  a  request  that  special  information 
be  sent  at  once  to  the  Pleasant  Yalley  brethren.  The  tone  of 
the  letter  appears  by  the  following :  "  there  is  no  other  State 
that  we  have  such  trouble  with  as  yours." 

On  the  24th  of  April,  1826,  a  charter  was  granted  to  Hope 
Lodge,  No.  3,  to  be  located  at  the  city  of  Albany.  A  notice 
of  what  is  known  of  this  lodge  will  hereafter  appear.  The  next 
charter  was  to  Strangers'  Eefuge  Lodge,  No.  4,  located  in  New 
York  city,  early  in  1827.  The  original  members  were  five  or  six, 
who  had  all  been  initiated  in  England.  These  Englishmen  very 
soon  became  dissatisfied  and  rebellious.  They  had  been  organ- 
ized without  the  payment  of  any  of  the  expenses,  and  yet  they 
promptly  refused  to  pay  the  revenue  of  ten  per  cent,  to  the  Grand 
Lodge.  The  Grand  Lodge  then  demanded  the  amount  due  for 
the  charter,  and  degree  and  lecture  books,  but  this  was  repudiated, 
and  the  Lodge  dissolved  the  connection  and  set  up  on  its  own 
account.  The  Grand  Master  expostulated,  and  offered  terms  of 


402  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

compromise,  which  were  all  rejected.  Last  of  all,  the  lodge  and 
its  members  were  threatened  with  the  coercive  power  of  the  law. 
At  this  juncture  Grand  Sire  Wildey  wrote  them,  imploring  their 
return  to  reason,  and  pointing  out  the  dangerous  tendency  of 
such  conduct ;  but  it  did  not  avail.  They  wrote  him  an  insolent 
reply,  and  claimed  the  honor  of  expulsion.  The  Grand  Lodge 
of  New  York  gave  them  due  notice  to  conform  to  their  obliga- 
tions, and,  meeting  no  response,  inflicted  upon  the  lodge  the 
extreme  penalty.  This  action  was  accepted  as  a  boon  of  inde- 
pendence. The  lodge  assumed  Grand  Lodge  powers,  and  pro- 
ceeded to  issue  a,  so-called,  dispensation  to  several  persons  in 
Paterson,  New  Jersey.  The  act  was  not  only  unlawful,  but 
dishonest,  as  they  furnished  lectures  and  degrees,  with  the  pre- 
tence that,  thus  armed,  the  members  of  the  spurious  lodge  could 
obtain  admission  into  any  lodge  of  Odd  Fellows.  The  Movable 
Committee,  however,  claimed  and  received  the  charter  fee,  and 
proceeded  legally  to  organize  Benevolent  Lodge,  No.  2,  of  New 
Jersey. 

These  two  mutinies  sorely  tried  the  patience  of  Grand   Sire 
"Wildey,  and  well  they  might.    The  Englishmen  who  formed  them 
were  no  doubt  imbued  with  the  traditionary  lore  of  the  Order. 
They  saw  in  the  lodges  mere  appendages  to  a  public-house,  and 
in  each  of  them  a  separate  and  independent  organization.     A 
lodge  was  a  supreme  power  in  itself,  and  was  a  Grand  Lodge  to 
such  as  were  by  it  chartered,  and  only  partially  subordinate  to  the 
originator  of  its  own  existence.     The  central  idea  of  the  Ancient 
Order  was  independence,  and  hence  it  was  composed  of  frag- 
ments, with  no  cohesive  power  to  keep  them  together.     The  infant 
Manchester  Unity  was  an  innovation  on  independent  action,  and 
a  protest  against  separate  and  generally  jarring  interests.     Hence 
a  union  of  several  independent  lodges,  under  one  government, 
was  properly  styled  the  Unity.     Wildey  knew  this,  but  did  not 
put  it  in  as  strong  a  light  as  he  might  have  done.     The  Order 
in  England  had  not  yet  been  absorbed  in  the  Manchester  move- 
ment, which  was  yet  to  be  fully  understood  by  its  movers  them- 
selves.    The  organization  there  was  far  behind  its  theory,  and 
"ancient  usage"  had    more    authority  than    recent   legislation. 
He  therefore  tried  to  excuse  the  system  in  this  country  by  its 
analogy  to  the  Manchester  arrangement,  and  we  cannot,  there- 
fore, wonder  that  he  failed  to  convict  the  recalcitrant  of  thei* 
absurd  position. 


ODD  FELLOWSHIP  IN  NEW  YORK.  403 

The  disloyalty  of  these  lodges  to  the  American  system, 
indicates  very  plainly  the  infirmity  of  the  early  efforts  in  this 
country.  The  first  members  were  English  Odd  Fellows,  saturated 
with  the  idea  of  lodge  independence.  The  word  independent 
was  a  snare  and  delusion  to  these  simple  minds.  As  the  dis- 
tinctive epithet  by  which  they  were  recognized,  they  held  the 
idea  it  conveyed  in  deepest  reverence.  The  self-assertion  of  the 
old  traditions  upheld  this  sentiment.  No  doubt  the  name  was 
taken  on  some  occasion  when  lodge  freedom  was  invaded,  or 
when  efforts  were  being  made  to  consolidate,  as  in  the  case  of 
the  London  Unity.  They  therefore  felt  that,  in  parting  with 
supreme  power  they  were  losing  their  independence,  and  aiding 
in  the  destruction  of  Odd  Fellowship.  This  was  the  spirit  which 
at  first  prevailed  in  Maryland  ;  which  sowed  dissension  in  Massa- 
chusetts, and  finally  overturned  the  Grand  Lodges  of  both  the 
latter  States.  The  whole  of  their  policy  was  confined  to  indi- 
vidual influence,  and  that  without  any  well-known  rules  of 
action.  In  one  thing  they  were  true  men,  and  in  that  were  in- 
dividually united.  They  were  lovers  of  good  fellowship,  and 
were  kind  to  each  other  in  misfortune.  Although  the  lodges 
were  scenes  of  brawling  and  heated  discussions,  fed  by  strong 
drink,  yet  in  all  the  disorder  there  was  a  heedful  ear  to  the 
cry  of  a  brother  in  distress.  The  life  of  the  principles  was 
indeed  present,  but  in  a  body  so  defective  that  there  was  no 
healthful  exhibition  of  its  workings.  With  them  it  was  im- 
pulse without  principle,  good  intentions  without  method,  fra- 
ternity without  a  common  bond,  a  body  without  a  head,  and  a 
loose  collection  of  men  without  the  cohesive  power  of  law  and 
order.  Wildey  deeply  sympathised  with  their  sentiments,  their 
habits  and  their  policy ;  he  had  been  one  of  them,  and  always  a 
chief;  but  better  counsels  led  him  to  higher  aims,  and  new  asso- 
ciates employed  his  powers  in  the  nobler  task  of  fraternal  organ- 
ization. 

In  September  1827  a  charter  was  granted  to  Past  Grand  Rus- 
sell Watts  and  Brothers  John  Snyder,  John  Osborn,  Isaac  L. 
Welsh,  and  Peter  H.  Snyder,  to  open  a  lodge  in  Albany.  The 
organization  was  completed  on  the  7th  of  November,  1827,  by 
the  opening  of  Philanthropic  Lodge,  No.  5.  There  is  no  authen- 
tic knowledge  of  the  financial  condition  of  the  lodges  at  this  time. 
The  half-yearly  receipts  of  Columbia  Lodge  are  reported  as 


404  AMERICAN   ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

$59.50,  and  no  other  return  appears  to  have  been  made.  On  the 
16th  of  December,  1827,  final  action  was  taken  for  the  expulsion 
of  Strangers'  Refuge  Lodge,  No.  4,  which  was  extended  to  all 
who  were  its  members  on  the  22d  of  August  ultimo.  This  was 
duly  confirmed  by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  in  May, 

1828.  In  the  meantime  a  singular  scene  was  being  enacted  in 
New  York.     Strangers'  Refuge  Lodge  was  dissolved,  but  on  the 
20th  of  January,  1828,  paid  for  its  dispensation  and  degree  books, 
and  seemed  to  be  quite  in  favor  with  the  Grand  Lodge.     This 
state  of  things  continued  until  the  Movable  Committee,  in  June, 

1829,  adjusted  all  differences  and  reinstated  the  lodge. 

The  hot  blood  and  quick  temper  of  this  lodge  descended  to 
the  successors  of  the  original  mutineers.  When  nearly  every 
lodge  had  dispensed  with  "  Harmony,"  this  lodge  would  not  agree 
to  its  abolition.  The  Grand  Officers  visited  the  session  and 
urged  conformity  to  the  new  rule,  and  were  rewarded  for  their 
persistency  with  personal  violence.  This  was  in  defence  of 
"  ancient  usage,"  but  the  Grand  Lodge  punished  the  outrage  by 
a  sentence  of  expulsion  at  the  August  session  of  1835.  The  best 
of  its  members  then  opened  a  new  lodge,  but  on  the  4th  of  No- 
vember, 1846,  the  lodge  was  again  revived,  and  was  prosper- 
ous for  twenty  years.  But  misrule  and  confusion  came  again, 
resulting  in  an  unlawful  division  of  the  lodge  property  among 
the  evil  disposed.  Accordingly  the  lodge  was  again  expelled  on 
the  15th  of  August,  1866.  The  members  who  had  not  partici- 
pated in  this  act  of  spoliation  again  revived  the  lodge,  and  it  has 
since  been  a  true  and  loyal  member  of  the  Order.  The  Grand 
Lodge,  on  the  16th  of  May,  1828,  resolved  that  the  subordinate 
lodges  be  allowed  to  fix  the  fee  to  be  charged  for  initiation.  This 
seems  to  be  the  first  mention  in  the  early  records  of  the  price  for 
initiation.  When  prices  are  named  they  always  refer  to  the 
-degrees.  The  price  in  Washington  Lodge,  Maryland,  1823,  was 
one  dollar ;  when  Past  Grand  Sire  Kennedy  was  initiated  on  the 
18th  of  February,  1831,  the  price  in  Maryland  was  five  dollars. 

In  July  1828,  Past  Grands  were  allowed  to  vote  for  Grand  Offi- 
cers by  proxy.  This  was  the  last  recorded  meeting  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  New  York  which  is  extant,  until  the  subsequent  revi- 
val of  the  Order.  It  began  its  career  with  but  one  subordinate, 
which  had  increased  to  five.  Its  membership  was  not  of  that 
sort  which  ensures  success.  To  the  contrary,  it  was  composed  of 


ODD   FELLOWSHIP   IN   NEW    YORK.  405 

elements  which  made  failure  certain.  Its  Past  Grands  were  fit 
representatives  of  the  English  and  Scotch  operatives  who  brought 
Odd  Fellowship  across  the  Atlantic.  These  were  singers,  toast- 
ers, reciters,  drinkers  and  smokers,  who  elected  officers  and  con- 
ducted fraternal  meetings.  The  chief  of  such  a  company  was 
usually  a  favorite  brother  who  was  a  tavern-keeper,  and  by  virtue 
of  such  distinction,  the  host.  This  body  of  men  were,  without  a 
total  reformation,  an  absolute  hindrance  to  the  work  of  Wildey. 
They  were  his  personal  admirers  and  followers,  and  he  was  their 
natural  leader.  Yet  Wildey,  without  losing  his  convivial  mag- 
netism, was  wedded  to  a  new  system,  of  which  these  simple  souls 
knew  little,  and  which  they  could  scarcely  tolerate.  Nothing 
but  Wildey's  name  arid  influence  brought  them  under  these  new 
conditions,  and  in  his  absence  they  spurned  them  as  fetters  upon 
the  Order. 

The  connection  of  New  York  Odd  Fellowship  with  the  supreme 
head  was  in  the  meantime  merely  nominal.  In  1S25  the  Grand 
Lodge  objected  to  Baltimore  as  the  permanent  seat  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  United  States,  but  did  nothing  further.  During 
the  rule  of  Wildey,  which  terminated  in  1833,  it  had  no  elected 
representative,  but  was  present  by  proxies.  Thomas  Scotchburn 
was  its  proxy  in  1825,  and  Richard  Marley  for  the  years  1826-7- 
8-9  and  1830-1  and  2.  In  1833  John  Pearce,  of  Pennsylvania, 
was  the  proxy.  The  first  representative  elect  was  Charles 
Mo  watt,  who  took  his  seat  October  6th,  1834,  and  served  also  in 
1835.  In  1836  Frederick  Leise  was  the  representative.  In  1837 
no  one  appeared,  and  in  1838  John  A.  Kennedy  made  his  appear- 
ance and  put  the  State  foremost  in  the  legislation  of  the  Order. 
No  reports  were  made  until  in  1828,  when  the  table  shows  num- 
ber of  lodges  four,  expulsions  thirteen,  and  the  other  items  blank. 
In  1829  the  number  of  lodges  reported  was  six,  and  expulsions 
one.  In  1830  the  Movable  Committee  reported  having  opened 
an  Encampment  in  New  York,  and  the  table  contains  seven 
lodges.  In  1831  the  number  of  lodges  was  four,  in  1832  and 
1833  six  each ;  in  1834  we  find  the  first  detailed  report :  number 
of  lodges  9,  initiations  136,  suspensions  25,  expulsions  4,  con- 
tributing members  348,  and  revenue  $1622.78. 

The  lowest  point  of  decadence  was  reached  in  1833.  At  that 
time  eleven  lodges  had  been  opened,  of  which  but  six  remained. 
The  Grand  Lodge  had  before  this  time  become  a  sort  of  nullity. 


406  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

In  1828  and  1829  a  controversy  arose  about  its  location,  and  so 
feeble  was  the  voice  of  the  membership,  that  the  Grand  Master 
by  his  own  act  removed  the  seat  of  the  Grand  Lodge  from  New 
York  to  Albany.  This  was  without  the  sanction  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  United  States,  and  in  defiance  of  the  brethren  of 
New  York  city.  Charles  Mowatt  was  by  this  body  elected 
Grand  Representative  in  1834-5,  and  Frederick  Leise  by  the 
New  York  brethren  in  1836-7.  During  this  time  the  Grand  Sire 
recognized  the  Albany  organization  as  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
State.  On  October  10th,  1835,  he  reports:  "On  my  arrival  in 
New  York  I  was  hurried  off  to  Albany,  accompanied  by  G.  M. 
Leise  and  other  members  of  the  Grand  Lodge  about  to  assemble 
in  that  city.  On  my  arrival  there  was  a  meeting  of  the  Encamp- 
ment, and  I  assisted  in  installing  their  officers,  furnishing  them 
with  necessary  information,  and  receiving  an  assurance  that  no 
exertion  would  be  wanting  on  their  part  to  ensure  success.  The 
Grand  Lodge  assembled  next  day,  being  better  attended  and  re- 
ceiving more  full  reports  than  at  any  previous  session.  I  made 
the  requisite  inquiries,  and  found  them  conforming,  in  every  par- 
ticular, to  the  usages  of  the  Order.  Harmony  and  prosperity 
exist  among  the  members,  presenting  a  flattering  prospect,  and  a 
guarantee  of  a  greater  increase  than  heretofore.  I  assisted  in  in- 
stalling the  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  was  much  pleased 
with  my  reception.  On  my  return  to  New  York  city  I  visited 
the  Encampment,  and  was  received  by  the  brethren  in  the  most 
cordial  manner,  and  found  the  Order  flourishing  in  that  city." 

This  condition  of  things  seems  to  require  further  explanation. 
The  first  Grand  Master  was  John  B.  Robinson,  who  had  the 
honor  of  originating  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1.  He  was  suc- 
ceeded by  Thomas  E.  Smith,  Alexander  Tulloch,  and  Russell 
Watts.  Ennion  Hussey,  until  this  time,  (July  1828),  was  the 
Grand  Secretary.  Watts  on  June  23d,  1823,  was  installed  the 
first  Grand  Guardian.  He  was  a  tailor  by  trade,  but  became  a  type- 
caster,  as  the  more  remunerative  employment.  He  afterwards 
found  his  way  to  Albany,  and  is  supposed  to  have  aided  in  the 
institution  of  Hope  Lodge,  No.  3,  in  April  1826.  It  is  related 
by  Past  Grand  Sire  Kennedy  that  Watts,  being  sent  by  an  em- 
ployer to  New  York,  in  1828,  to  buy  copper,  returned  without  the 
funds  entrusted  to  him ;  but  the  money  was  not  thrown  away, 
for  he  had  given  a  grand  entertainment,  and  had  been  elected 


ODD  FELLOWSHIP  IN  NEW  YORK.  407 

Grand  Master.  He  brought  back  with  him  the  regalia  and  books 
of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  immediate  preparations  were  made  for 
transferring  that  body  permanently  to  Albany.  This  was  not 
difficult,  as  the  members  in  the  city  of  New  York  were  utterly 
demoralized,  and  those  of  Albany  a  picked  body  of  excellent  men. 
We  mention  John  Y;  N.  Yates,  John  O.  Cole,  Joseph  Barton, 
William  L.  Osborn,  Daniel  P.  Marshall,  Charles  Dillon,  Jacob 
Henry,  Richard  Starr,  Alexander  Cameron,  William  Lelachure, 
Malcolm  McPherson,  and  P.  H.  Snyder.  These  gentlemen  were 
incomparably  superior  to  the  membership  in  New  York,  and 
formed  a  Grand  Lodge  to  which  that  before  held  was  notably  in- 
ferior. What  wonder  then  that  Wildey  should  hail  the  change  as 
an  augury  of  good,  and  that  a  mind  which  mainly  sought  for 
results  should  have  been  little  careful  of  the  means  ? 

But  in  1836  there  was  a  great  change.  The  Order  began  to 
look  up  again  in  New  York  city  and  to  claim  a  voice  in  the 
Grand  Lodge.  Its  Past  Grands  pointed  to  the  constitution  which 
seated  it  in  that  city,  and  claimed  three-fourths  of  the  members, 
•etc.  A  protest  was  presented  to  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  against  the  elec- 
tion of  P.  G.  M.  Leise  as  a  representative  in  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
the  United  States.  This  protest  was  presented  and  referred  to  a 
select  committee  with  the  credentials  of  Bro.  Leise.  This  com- 
mittee was  composed  of  James  L.  Ridgely,  James  Gettys,  Henry 
Wolford,  Chas.  A.  Zeitz  and  Thos.  Wildey.  The  report  declared 
the  special  meeting  at  Albany  unlawful,  and  that  Bro.  Leise 
was  not  entitled  to  his  seat.  It  was  then,  on  motion  of  Rep. 
Pearce,  "  Resolved :  that  a  committee  be  appointed  by  this 
Grand  Lodge,  to  examine  into  the  situation  of  affairs  in  the 
State  of  New  York,  and  to  make  an  effort  to  adjust  the  dif- 
ficulties existing  in  its  Grand  Lodge,  and  that  said  committee 
proceed,  if  necessary,  forthwith  in  discharge  of  the  duties  as- 
signed them."  And  the  following  members  were  elected, 
D.  G.  Sire  Pearce,  P.  G.  Sire  Gettys,  and  P.  G.  Sire  Wildey. 
These  brothers,  on  the  17th  of  May,  1837,  reported  that 
they  had  failed  to  reconcile  the  difficulty,  and  were  dis- 
charged, and  another  committee  was  appointed,  "  to  inquire  into 
the  expediency  of  forfeiting  the  charter  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
New  York."  On  the  same  day  the  committee  reported  the  facts 
herein  recited,  and  that  they  had  been  treated  with  neglect  and 
•contempt  by  the  Albany  brethren,  who  had  expelled  P.  G.  M. 


408  AMERICAN     ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Leise,  and  suspended  the  subordinate  lodges  in  New  York  city,, 
without  waiting  for  the  action  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United 
States.  They  reported  two  resolutions,  which  were  adopted. 
First,  That  the  New  York  Grand  Lodge  Charter  was  forfeited, 
and  authorizing  the  Grand  Secretary  to  demand  its  charter  and 
effects ;  and,  secondly,  appointing  a  committee  to  meet  at  Pough- 
keepsie,  and  summon  Bro.  Van  Yetchten  of  Albany  and  Bro, 
Leise  of  New  York,  and  such  of  the  Past  Grands  as  could  bo 
assembled,  to  re-organize  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State.  The 
committee  consisted  of  P.  G.  Sire  Wildey,  and  Heps.  Gettys, 
Pearce,  Lucas,  Sanderson  and  Ridgely. 

This  committee  was  met  by  the  parties  interested,  but  had  no 
success.  They  say :  "  The  members  from  the  city  of  Albany 
persist  in  demands  which,  (in  the  opinion  of  the  committee),  are 
not  made  in  the  spirit  of  Odd  Fellowship,  and  are  such  as  the 
brothers  of  the  city  of  New  York  cannot  assent  to ;  that  the 
members  residing  in  the  city  of  Albany  still  refuse  obedience  to 
the  decisions  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  and  still 
claim  to  act  as  a  Grand  Lodge,  and  as  such  have  recently  elected 
Grand  Officers."  The  committee  reported  a  resolution,  which 
was  adopted,  providing  for  calling  the  Past  Grands  of  the  State 
together  and  forming  a  new  Grand  Lodge.  The  result  appears 
in  the  minutes  of  the  session  of  October  1st,  1838 — Journal  263. 
The  committee  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  I.  O. 
O.  F.,  appointed  by  resolutions  of  October  3d,  1837,  convened 
for  the  purpose  of  their  appointment  in  Newburgh  at  10  o'clock 
A.  M.,  November  21st,  1837,  pursuant  to  notice  from  the  Chair- 
man. Present,  Andrew  E.  Warner,  proxy  .Representative  of  the 
District  of  Columbia,  and  P.  G.  Sire  Thomas  Wildey,  in  place 
of  the  Representative  of  Virginia.  Bro.  J.  A.  Kennedy  was 
appointed  to  act  as  Secretary.  The  committee  immediately  pro- 
ceeded to  business  by  announcing  their  readiness  to  receive 
applications  from  the  lodges ;  when  the  following  lodges  made  for- 
mal application  for  a  Grand  Charter,  namely,  Columbia  Lodge, 
No.l;  New  York  Lodge,  No.  10;  Gettys  Lodge,  No.  11;  Germania 
Lodge,  No.  13 ;  Teutonia  Lodge,  No.  14;  and  Perseverance  Lodge, 
No.  17.  There  being  no  other  application,  the  committee  ordered 
that  a  charter  be  granted  to  them.  Previous  to  the  election  of 
Grand  Officers,  the  following  credentials  were  presented :  From 
Columbia  Lodge,  No.  1,  for  twenty-four  Past  Grands ;  from  New 


ODD   FELLOWSHIP   IN   NEW    YORK.  409^ 

York,  No.  10,  for  fourteen  ;  from  Gettys,  No.  11,  for  thirteen  ~ 
from  Germania,  No.  13,  for  eight ;  and  from  Perseverance,  No. 
17,  for  eight ;  making  in  all  seventy-five  Past  Grands. 

On  the  call  of  the  roll  the  following  answered  to  their  names : 
From  Lodge  No.  1,  C.  McGowan,  J.  Booth,  Jr.,  Wm.  H.  Colyer, 
Wm.  A.  Taylor,  Joseph  D.  Stewart,  Wm.  Y.  Clark,  Joseph  Pat- 
terson, M.  Kelly,  Sam.  McDonald,  E.  Seaborne,  W.  Charlick  and 
James  Cole.  From  Lodge  No.  10,  W.  Small,  C.  W.  Riddell,  J. 
R.  Young,  J.  Bale,  E.  Wainwright,  S.  D.  Alexander,  C.  P.  Van 
Norden,  C.  Ashmead,  P.  H.  Green,  T.  Frost  and  Wm.  Thompson. 
From  Lodge  No.  11,  J.  Alcock,  el.  A.  Kennedy,  F.  H.  Macy,  J. 
Marrener,  S,  J.  Pooley,  J.  C.  Pooley,  M.  Nutting  and  J.  B.  Yan- 
dusen.  From  Lodge  No.  13,  Jos.  Bayer,  J.  M.  Eisenmann,  G. 
Chatillon,  F.  Hartig,  C.  Kinkele  and  H.  Bosheit.  From  Lodge 
No.  14,  C.  Nordrneyer  and  F.  Muhlmeister.  From  Lodge  No. 
17,  Wm.  H.  Youngs,  J.  Naylor,  P.  Glover,  Wm.  Carew  and  J. 
Wilkinson.  Forty-four  Past  Grands  being  present  a  ballot  was 
had,  resulting  as  follows :  For  Grand  Master,  James  Alcock  of 
No.  11 ;  for  Dep.  Grand  Master,  Willet  Charlick  of  No.  1 ;  for 
Grand  Secretary,  Charles  McGowan  ;  and  for  Grand  Treasurer, 
George  Chatillon  of  No.  13. 

The  question  of  location  being  submitted,  the  vote  stood  forty- 
three  for  the  city  of  New  York  and  one  for  the  town  of  Pough- 
keepsie.  Whereupon  the  blank  in  the  charter  was  filled  with  the 
words,  "  City  of  New  York."  The  committee  then  adjourned 
the  meeting,  for  the  purpose  of  opening  the  new  body  in 
legal  form.  The  adjourned  session  was  held  at  Masonic  Hall,  in 
New  York,  on  the  23d  of  November,  1837.  Past  Grands  Ken- 
nedy and  Ashmead  presented  the  officers  for  installation,  and 
those  elected  at  Newburgh  were  inducted  into  their  respective 
chairs.  After  this  ceremony,  Past  Grand  Sire  Wildey  delivered 
to  Grand  Master  Alcock  the  charter  dated  the  21st  of  November, 
1837,  and  a  constitution  and  by-laws  for  the  Grand  Lodge,  which 
were  accepted.  The  Grand  Master  then  appointed  his  officers, 
who  were  also  installed,  namely :  Wilson  Small  of  No.  10, 
Grand  Warden ;  Samuel  McDonald,  Grand  Marshal ;  Marcus 
Hurd,  Grand  Chaplain ;  E.  Wainwright,  Grand  Conductor,  and 
Wm.  H.  Youngs,  Grand  Guardian.  Past  Grands  Green  of  No. 
10,  Wilkinson  of  No.  17,  and  Nordmeyer  of  No.  14,  were  ap- 
pointed the  committee  of  election  and  returns ;  P.  Grands  Stewart,, 


410  AMERICAN   ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Youngs,  and  Eisenmann,  committee  on  finance,  and  P.  Grands 
John  A.  Kennedy,  Theodore  Frost,  and  William  A.  Tyler,  com- 
mittee of  correspondence.  On  motion,  the  committee  of  corres- 
pondence was  directed  to  notify  the  subordinate  lodges  of  the 
organization  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  to  instruct  them  to  submit 
to  the  proper  authority. 

And  thus  again,  and  we  hope  forever,  was  Odd  Fellowship 
firmly  established  in  that  State  whose  boundaries  reach  from 
Canada  to  the  Atlantic.  The  Order  had  gone  down  in  disorder  be- 
cause it  had  no  great  leader  or  system  of  digested  law.  As  in  Mas- 
sachusetts, subordination  and  authority  were  wanting.  The  head 
was  sick,  and  the  heart  in  consequence  was  faint.  A  Grand 
Lodge  without  constitution  or  by-laws,  standing  committees,  or 
rules  of  order,  was  simply  a  mockery  of  the  name.  There  was 
no  wisdom  in  council  or  concert  of  action.  It  was  a  collection 
of  a  few  Past  Grands  who  had  no  hold  upon  the  membership. 
True,  there  was  sometimes  a  spirited  show  of  boldness  and  single 
acts  of  legitimate  authority,  but  these  were  only  the  exceptions. 
The  scanty  minutes  indicate  no  attempt  to  crystallize  into  a 
working  body  or  to  enlarge  the  scope  of  the  effort.  There  were 
good  intentions  without  prudence  and  zeal,  but  idle  controversy 
took  the  place  of  action.  The  result  was  inevitable,  confusion, 
and  for  the  time,  ruin.  But  wrhile  the  leaders  and  the  Grand 
Lodge  were  falling  together,  the  subordinates  were  gaining 
strength  and  influence.  Good  and  true  men  came  to  the  front. 
Better  and  wiser  counsels  prevailed. 

It  was  not  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  which  saved 
the  Order,  nor  was  it  Wildey.  The  Grand  Sire  had  retired. 
His  visits  to  New  York  were  beneficial  indeed,  but  not  effectual. 
In  fact  he  was  helpless  in  such  a  crisis.  But  the  hour  had  come, 
and  with  it  the  men.  Chief  among  these  was  John  A.  Kennedy, 
a  man  soon  to  be  honored  from  the  St.  Lawrence  to  the  ocean, 
a  name  which  became  historical  in  the  Order,  wherever  Odd 
Fellowship  was  known  and  practiced.  His  education  for  the 
work  was  singularly  complete.  Fresh  from  association  with 
Wildey  and  Ridgely,  the  old  and  the  new  guard  of  Maryland  Odd 
Fellowship ;  a  Past  Secretary  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland, 
and  a  leader  in  that  body,  he  was  fitted,  above  all  others,  to  lay 
•deep  foundations  for  the  great  revival.  It  is  to  his  hand  that  we 
must  trace  the  systematic  beginning  of  the  resuscitated  Grand 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    NEW    YORK. 

Lodge.  Hence  a  constitution  and  by-laws  and  regular  commit- 
tees. Those  who  knew  his  executive  power  and  administrative 
skill  will  recognize  at  once  the  mind  of  a  master.  Wildey  reached 
New  York  when  the  subordinates  were  without  a  head,  and  the 
•Grand  Lodge  was  in  the  throes  of  dissolution.  Wildey  was  in 
•despair  unless  the  Albany  junto  could  control  the  discordant  ele- 
ments. This  was  his  only  remedy.  Tradition  tells  the  story, 
which  was  quite  dramatic.  When  the  Grand  Sire  visited  Albany 
in  1829,  he  was,  as  before  related,  delighted  with  what  he  saw. 
When  he  was  returning  to  Baltimore,  he  met  the  Past  Grands  of 
New  York  City  at  the  Bull's  Head,  in  the  Bowery.  They  were 
utterly  disorganized,  and  had  nothing  to  propose.  He  was 
equally  helpless  and  had  no  remedy.  But  the  great  leader  could 
not  hear  of  failure  with  meekness  or  patience.  We  see  him  now 
as  his  burly  form  quivers  with  indignation ;  he  confronts  them 
with  upbraiding  looks,  and  in  his  blunt  and  crushing  manner 
exclaims,  "  I  have  tried  you  for  six  years,  and  find  that  you  are 
not  fit  to  work  a  Grand  Lodge." 

The  new  birth  came  from  another  direction.  It  came  from 
the  body  of  the  Past  Grands  of  the  subordinate  lodges  that  yet 
held  the  Order  together.  Kennedy  had  cast  in  his  lot  with  them 
and  inspired  the  movement.  The  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United 
States  and  its  committee  had  been  deceived  in  their  expectations 
from  Albany.  In  this  dilemma  the  New  York  city  lodges,  with 
closed  ranks,  came  to  the  rescue.  The  committee  was  captured 
and  gladly  helped  the  effort.  Ambition  and  personal  rivalry 
were  laid  upon  the  altar  of  fraternity.  Law  was  at  length  su- 
preme. The  Order,  at  one  stroke,  ceased  to  be  local,  for  the  tie 
with  the  head  of  the  Order  was  intelligently  knotted  with  the  three- 
fold cords  of  a  common  interest,  a  common  government  and  a  com- 
mon mission,  and  the  Empire  State  was  saved  to  them  and  us, 
and  to  humanity. 

JOHN  A.  KENNEDY. 

The  subject  of  this  memoir  was  born  in  Baltimore,  on  the 
9th  day  of  August,  1803.  His  parents  were  of  Irish  descent,  and 
their  condition  was  humble ;  they  were  therefore  not  able  to  give 
their  son  the  advantages  of  an  education.  At  a  proper  age  he 
was  apprenticed  to  a  trade,  and  in  due  time  became  an  excellent 
house  and  sign  painter.  G.  Secretary  Ridgely  made  his  ae- 


412  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

quaintance  at  an  early  day.  He  was  just  entering  professional 
life  as  a  lawyer,  and  having  need  of  a  sign,  called  upon  Kennedy. 
He  found  the  young  mechanic  much  disposed  to  conversation, 
and  full  of  information ;  it  followed  that  the  sign  was  neglected. 
Much  as  the  young  attorney  desired  to  see  his  name  displayed, 
he  was  diverted  from  that  subject-  by  the  interesting  discussions 
that  followed.  Kennedy  was  a  Jackson  man  and  Ridgely  a 
Henry  Clay  Whig,  and  each  was  delighted  to  find  in  the  other 
an  eager  and  enthusiastic  disputant.  From  politics  they  passed 
to  other  matters,  and  Ridgely,  who  had  just  entered  the  Order, 
naturally  introduced  the  subject  of  Odd  Fellowship.  The  young 
painter  was  prejudiced  against  the  Order  and  did  not  spare  his 
censure,  while  his  customer  was  full  of  laudation.  The  sign  was 
at  length  completed,  but  the  young  men  still  continued  to  meet 
for  conversation.  Ridgely  not  only  urged  the  principles  of  the 
new  society,  but  produced  such  publications  in  its  favor  as  he 
could  find.  The  painter  was  dogmatic  in  the  highest  degree, 
a  trait  which  afterwards  became  a  ruling  element  in  his  char- 
acter. His  self-reliance  and  the  bold  assertion  of  his  views- 
gave  him  great  force  of  expression.  All  this  was  intensified  by 
his  knowledge  of  facts  which  were  not  creditable  to  the  new 
Order.  The  intemperance  and  boisterous  mirth  which  character- 
ized the  meetings  were  particularly  the  objects  of  his  sarcasm. 
In  the  meantime  the  enterprise  was  assuming  better  shape.  The 
reform  element  was  beginning  to  rule,  and  the  objectionable 
features  were  gradually  passing  away.  Above  all,  an  Odd  Fel- 
lows Hall  was  projected,  whose  completion  would  divorce  the 
Order  from  the  public-house.  When  the  programme  for  the 
dedication  was  announced,  Kennedy  was  greatly  struck  with  the 
proceedings  contemplated.  He  called  upon  Ridgely  and  ex- 
pressed his  surprise,  and  made  many  inquiries.  He  seemed  par- 
ticularly pleased  at  finding  so  many  of  the  best  citizens  entering 
the  Order  in  advance  of  the  day  fixed  for  the  final  ceremonies. 
A  sudden  impulse  seized  him,  and  at  Ridgely 's  instance  he 
allowed  himself  to  be  proposed  as  a  member.  He  was  accord- 
ingly initiated  by  Gratitude  Lodge,  No.  5,  on  the  23d  of  Feb- 
ruary, 1831. 

That  he  was  an  active  member  may  be  judged  from  the 
fact  that  he  filled  five  offices  during  the  next  fifteen  months,  and 
entered  the  G.  Lodge  of  l!d.  on  the  19th  of  May,  1832.  Here 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    NEW    YORK.  413 

te  became  a  leader  in  every  reform.  He  was  particularly  active 
in  organizing  a  plan  for  the  education  of  orphans,  and  was  Sec- 
retary of  the  Board  from  May,  1832,  to  March,  1834.  On 
the  20th  of  January,  1834,  he  was  elected  G.  Sec.,  and  his  friend 
Ridgely,  G.  M.  on  the  same  ticket.  This  office  he  resigned  on 
the  15th  of  April  following,  preparatory  to  his  removal  from  the 
city.  During  his  career  in  Maryland  he  was  never  idle.  His 
services  in  adjusting  the  hall  debt  and  placing  it  on  a  stable 
basis  were  invaluable,  and  no  one  exerted  a  greater  influence 
in  organizing  the  G.  Lodge  into  a  working  body.  His  practical 
mind  left  its  impress  in  every  direction,  and  gave  a  fresh  energy 
to  the  struggling  cause.  He  did  not  neglect  the  higher  degrees, 
but  attached  himself  to  Salem  Encampment,  No.  2,  where  he 
performed  valuable  labor.  With  the  best  wishes  of  his  Maryland 
brethren  he  left  that  State  in  the  spring  of  1834. 

The  aspiring  young  mechanic  felt  that  his  ambition  could  be 
better  gratified  in  New  York  than  in  Baltimore.  He  was  al- 
ready a  leading  spirit  among  his  companions,  and  was  conscious 
of  great  powers,  and  desired  the  opportunity  for  their  exercise. 
Immediately  on  reaching  his  new  home  he  joined  Getty s  Lodge, 
No.  11,  which  had  been  instituted  only  a  few  months.  Through 
his  agency  Mount  Hebron  Encampment,  No.  2,  (now  No.  4),  was 
soon  after  chartered  and  he  became  its  first  High  Priest.  Early 
in  1835  he  organized  the  Odd  Fellows'  Hall  Association  of  New 
York.  He  was  its  first  Secretary,  and  on  its  incorporation  was 
chosen  President,  and  continued  in  that  position  until  his  death. 
It  is  due  to  him  that  the  enterprise  was  successful  and  the  edifice 
constructed ;  it  is  a  monument  to  his  prudence  and  energy.  On 
the  19th  of  September,  1838,  he  was  elected  G.  Representative, 
and  took  his  seat  in  October  in  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  At  the  annual 
session  of  1839,  he  became  G.  Master,  and  aided  in  August  of  that 
year  in  opening  the  G.  Encampment  of  the  State.  In  1841  he 
returned  to  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  as  proxy  for  Delaware,  and  at  the 
annual  session  of  that  year  was  elected  G.  Sire.  This  was  a  great 
compliment,  as  Kennedy  had  performed  but  one  year's  service  in 
the  body. 

It  is  only  necessary  to  examine  his  administration  to  see  the 
wisdom  of  his  choice.  Whatever  separate  qualities  existed  in 
his  predecessors,  he  possessed  in  the  aggregate.  His  character 
was  stern,  and  inflexibility  was  his  chief  characteristic.  The  sys< 


414  AMEEICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

tern  was  being  slowly  formed,  and  the  routine  of  uniformity  was 
the  necessity  of  the  hour.  To  his  other  qualities  were  added  a 
zeal  and  energy  unusual,  and  a  clear  comprehension  of  every 
question.  The  result  was  a  marvel  of  attention  to  duty  under 
the  existing  laws.  Such  was  his  interest  in  the  Order  that  it 
seemed  to  be  his  only  concern.  In  every  part  of  his  great  office 
he  was  proficient.  He  presided  ably,  and  was  cognizant  of  every 
movement  and  its  tendency.  When  he  took  a  position  nothing 
could  move  him,  and  no  man,  alive  or  dead,  more  deeply  impressed 
his  personality  upon  everything  that  he  touched.  But  this  did 
not  detract  from  the  genial  nature  which  underlay  the  firmness 
of  his  exterior.  Among  his  intimates  he  was  not  only  kind,  but 
tender,  and  no  Odd  Fellow  was  more  faithful  than  he  to  the  obli- 
gations of  fraternity.  A  perusal  of  his  reports  will  exhibit  the 
vigor  of  his  talents  and  his  laborious  attention  to  his  duties. 
These  documents  are  masterly  performances,  in  which  his  busi- 
ness capacity  appears  in  every  paragraph.  In  fact  they  are 
models  which  have  never  been  surpassed  by  his  able  successors. 
It  was  during  his  term  that  the  question  of  a  reform  of  the 
ritual  was  agitated,  and  he  was  one  of  its  leaders.  It  followed 
that  in  1845  he  was  on  the  committee  whose  able  and  thorough 
revision  was  unanimously  adopted. 

But  he  had  a  public  history  outside  of  the  Order.  He  began  in 
New  York  as  a  journeyman  painter,  but  subsequently  entered  into 
business  on  his  own  account.  In  the  meantime  he  devoted  much 
of  his  time  to  politics,  with  marked  success.  His  first  public  po- 
sition was  that  of  a  member  of  the  convention  to  revise  the  State 
Constitution  in  1848.  In  1854  he  was  Councilman  from  th^ 
Ninth  District,  and  at  the  close  of  his  term  was  appointed  Super 
intendent  of  Castle  Garden.  Here  his  courage,  in  the  protection 
of  emigrants  from  imposition,  made  him  many  enemies,  and  often 
put  his  life  in  jeopardy,  but  his  capacity  became  the  more  con- 
spicuous to  the  public.  In  1858  he  was  elected  to  the  Board  of 
Supervisors,  but  resigned  in  1860,  to  become  Superintendent  of 
the  Metropolitan  Police.  In  this  arduous  position  he  won  golden 
opinions  from  all  classes  of  citizens.  It  is  well  known  that  such 
a  position  is  one  requiring  the  highest  executive  qualities.  The 
great  force  under  his  control  was  in  fact  a  military  organization, 
requiring  a  leader  of  decided  capacity  to  insure  its  efficiency. 
The  J¥.  Y.  Herald  said :  "  The  changes  effected  in  the  Police 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    NEW    YORK. 


Department  by  Mr.  Kennedy  in  his  new  sphere  are  numerous,. 
and  it  can  be  fairly  said  that  he  has  brought  the  force  to  an  admi- 
rable state  of  discipline."  His  services  were  such  as  will  not  soon 
be  forgotten.  The  Herald,  in  speaking  of  them,  says  :  "  The 
courageous  conduct  of  Mr.  Kennedy  during  the  1863  riots  is  a 
tradition  among  the  police,  and  how  he  and  his  friend,  Thomas 
C.  Acton,  rushed  into  the  thickest  of  the  fray,  regardless  of 
whether  they  lost  their  lives  or  not.  To  his  dying  day  Mr.  Ken- 
nedy was  never  free  from  suffering,  caused  by  the  murderous 
shower  of  stones  thrown  at  him  in  Forty-Fifth  Street  and  Lexing- 
ton Avenue,  when  he  was  about  addressing  the  rioters,  who,  upon 
learning  who  he  was,  pelted  him  with  stones  and  brickbats,  and 
one  of  his  legs  was  so  injured  that  it  remained,  after  splinters  had 
been  taken  out  of  it,  an  open  sore  for  years.  The  men  under  his 
command  knew  that  his  only  ambition  was  to  have  the  force  made 
as  effective  as  possible,  and  that  his  judgment  was  good  and  his- 
bravery  unquestioned."  After  nine  years  of  indefatigable  work 
he  resigned  this  position  and  became  President  of  the  Avenue  C. 
Railroad,  and  more  recently  was  appointed  Collector  of  Assess- 
ments, which  office  he  held  at  the  time  of  his  death. 

But  to  return  to  his  connection   with  Odd  Fellowship.     It 
will  be  seen  in  our  history  of  the  degrees  that  he  was  an  active 
agent  in  the  revision  of  1845.     He  had  deeply  studied  the  subject 
and  was  a  zealous  reformer.     His  part  of  the  work  was  well  done, 
and  to  him  we  owe  the  installation  and  other  forms  now  in  use. 
In  one  department  he  stood  alone.     No  Odd  Fellow  was  as  so- 
licitous as  he  for  the  preservation  of  our  early  history.     It  was- 
his  special  work  for  years  to  commune  with  the  pioneers  and 
learn  from  them  the  events  which  controlled  the  destiny  of  the 
infant  Order.     In  connection  with  G.  Sec.  Ridgely  he  explored 
the  hidden  past  of  the  Order  in  Maryland,  and  but  for  him  our 
chapter  on  Washington  Lodge  would  have  been  entirely  unsatis- 
factory.    His  researches  into  the  history  of  the  degrees  were  par- 
ticularly exhaustive,  and  the  first  portion  of  that  chapter  has  been 
framed  upon  the  model  of  his  notes  on  that  subject.     Much  of 
his  work  was  not  suitable  for  our  use,  but  as  a  whole  it  affords 
the^  strongest  evidence  of  his  persistent  zeal  and  energy.     His 
desire  for  the  possession  of  facts  shedding  light  upon  any  matter 
pertaining  to  the  Order,  was  a  passion  which  never  forsook  him. 
In  fact,  he  was  not  only  foremost,  but  alone  in  this  important 


416  AMERICAN   ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

matter.  His  relations  to  the  Order  were  intimate  and  absorbing 
to  the  last.  He  kept  up  a  large  and  varied  correspondence  with 
most  of  the  old  leaders,  and  was  generally  present  in  the  G.  L. 
U.  S.  so  long  as  he  was  able.  His  subordinate  lodge  and  En- 
campment were  always  dear  to  him,  and  their  members  were  as 
part  of  his  own  family.  By  the  Order  in  New  York  he  was  held 
in  esteem  and  reverence  as  its  greatest  leader.  He  found  it 
scattered,  poor  and  weak,  and  left  it  united,  rich  and  powerful. 
Aided  by  a  faithful  remnant,  he  entered  the  contest  with  an  ac- 
tivity and  judgment  that  assured  success.  But  his  reputation 
was  national ;  and  of  all  the  men  after  the  first  decade,  not  one 
has  made  a  deeper  impression  upon  his  contemporaries.  His 
fame  as  an  Odd  Fellow  will  increase  with  years,  and  no  man  better 
deserves  the  wreath  that  he  so  nobly  wears. 

But  our  limits  and  plan  do  not  allow  more  than  a  brief  sketch 
of  this  great  Odd  Fellow,  as  he  did  not  belong  to  the  first  decade. 
One  of  his  last  letters  was  to  G.  Secretary  Ridgely.  It  was  full 
of  vitality  and  of  the  spirit  of  the  Order.  A  few  days  afterwards, 
on  the  20th  of  June,  1873,  he  died.  His  funeral  was  an  ovation 
from  the  leading  men  of  his  adopted  city,  and  his  brethren  fol- 
lowed him  to  the  grave  in  the  deepest  mourning.  The  address 
by  Bishop  Janes  did  full  justice  to  his  memory,  and  all  felt  that 
a  noble  spirit  had  departed.  Yery  recently  a  monument  was 
erected  over  his  tomb  by  a  committee  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  N.  Y., 
of  which  George  W.  Dilks,  P.  G.  M.,  was  the  efficient  chair- 
man. And  thus  a  great  man  in  the  Order  has, /passed  away, 
a  representative  of  the  Grand  Sires  who  have  so  ably  presided 
over  our  institution.  G.  Sec.  Ridgely  has  lost  a  deeply  attached 
and  venerated  friend,  and  Odd  Fellowship  a  member  whose  name 
is  deeply  engraven  in  the  annals  of  fraternity.  The  announce- 
ment of  his  departure  cast  a  pall  over  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  of  1873. 
That  body  hung  with  grief  and  pride  upon  the  words  of  Medole, 
Fitzhugh,  Ellison,  and  Ridgely,  who  in  turn  uttered  his  pane- 
gyric. A  reference  to  Journal  5863  to  5871  will  repay  the  reader 
in  furnishing  a  memorial  which  is  more  enduring  than  brass  or 
marble.  We  shall  close  this  chapter  with  a  memoir  of  an  able 
coadjutor  of  Kennedy,  furnished  by  P.  G.  Rep.  John  Medole,  of 
New  York. 

WILSON    SMALL. 

It  often  happens  that  extirpating  the  love  of  glory,  which  is 
observed  to  take  the  deepest  root  in  noble  minds,  tears  up  several 


WILSON  SMALL. 


ODD  FELLOWSHIP  IN  NEW  YORK.  417 

virtues  with  it ;  and  that  suppressing  the  desire  of  fame  is  apt  to 
Teduce  men  to  a  state  of  indolence  and  supineness.  But  when, 
without  any  incentive  of  vanity,  a  person  of  abilities  is  zealous 
for  the  good  of  mankind— and  as  solicitous  for  the  concealment 
as  the  performance  of  noble  and  generous  actions — we  may  be 
sure  that  he  has  something  more  than  ordinary  in  his  composi- 
tion, and  has  a  heart  filled  with  goodness  and  magnanimity  and 
loving  kindness.  Such  may  be  said  of  the  subject  of  this  memoir. 

Wilson  Small  was  born  in  the  City  of  New  York  on  the  13th 
of  February,  1810.  In  consequence  of  the  narrowness  of  his 
father's  fortune,  being  a  gentleman  of  small  estate,  Wilson  was, 
in  his  youthful  days,  deprived  of  the  benefits  of  a  liberal  educa- 
tion, and  progress  in  his  studies  was  terminated  at  an  early  age  ; 
for  in  1822,  being  then  only  12  years  old,  he  entered  the  estab- 
lishment of  Roswell  White,  manufacturing  jeweler  in  Dey 
Street,  and  served  a"n  apprenticeship  faithfully  and  creditably. 
He  adhered  to  this  business  for  a  livelihood  until  183T,  when 
«very  mechanical  pursuit  and  mercantile  interest  was  pros- 
trated by  financial  depression  and  disaster.  Shortly  afterward 
he  entered  public  life,  and  has  continued  in  it  nearly  ever  since. 

Drifting  from  one  position  to  another,  and  gaining  in  political 
popularity,  in  1847  he  was  elected  to  serve  the  city  in  the  State 
Legislature,  and  was  returned  in  1848,  and  again  in  1849.  In 
1850  he  was  selected  to  represent  the  tenth  Ward  in  the  Board 
of  Assistant  Aldermen ;  and,  although  the  Board  stood  politically 
8  and  8,  he  was  elected  as  its  President,  and  presided  to  the  satis- 
faction of  both  parties.  He  was  subsequently  tendered  the  nom- 
ination for  Alderman  of  the  same  Ward,  but  declined  its  accept- 
ance, and  again  turned  his  attention  to  the  legitimate  channels  of 
trade.  An  opportunity  offering,  he  united  his  services  with  the 
West  Street  Foundry,  an  establishment  then  famous  for  its 
production  of  boilers  and  engines  for  steamboats.  This  led  to 
his  connection  with  the  ferry  established  between  Canal  Street, 
New  York,  and  Fort  Lee,  about  nine  miles  distant,  on  the  west 
bank  of  the  Hudson,  and  his  acceptance  of  the  position  of  cap- 
tain of  the  old  steamboat  "  Boston,"  then  running  on  this  line. 
As  this  business  did  not  prove  to  be  either  profitable  or  suited  to 
his  taste  and  ambition,  he  finally  disposed  of  his  interest  in  the 
ferry  to  Messrs.  Hogg  &  Delamater,  and  again  entered  the  field 
of  political  service  and  preferment,  and  was  assigned  to  the 
o/r 


418  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

responsible  position  of  Water  Purveyor,  under  the  control  of  the 
Croton  Aqueduct  Department.  In  1856  he  was  appointed  Court 
Clerk,  and  in  1857-8  served  as  Receiver  of  Taxes  in  the  Depart- 
ment of  Finance.  His  next  appointment  was  that  of  one  of  the 
Deputy  Collectors  of  Assessments,  by  the  Street  Commissioners,, 
which  he  filled  in  1860-1.  He  was  then  made  Deputy  Superin- 
tendent of  Eepairs  and  Supplies,  and  subsequently  promoted  to 
Superintendent,  under  the  immediate  control  of  the  Department 
of  Public  Works,  which  office  he  held  until  1873,  when  a  change 
in  the  dominant  politics  of  the  city  government  gave  him  a  leave 
of  absence  of  several  months'  duration.  In  1875  he  was  ap- 
pointed Judgment  Clerk  in  the  Superior  Court,  which  position 
he  occupies  at  the  present  time. 

He  was  a  member  of  the  old  Volunteer  Fire  Department  for 
about  16  years,  and  was  one  of  the  assistant  engineers  under 
Chief  Engineer  John  Hiker,  and  afterward  tinder  Cornelius  Y. 
Anderson.  He  served  in  the  force  until  reorganized  as  a  paid  fire 
department  in  1865.  He  was  also  selected  as  one  of  the  Trustees 
of  the  Fire  Department  Benevolent  Fund  for  the  care  of  aged  and 
disabled  firemen,  and  the  protection  of  widows  and  orphans  of 
deceased  members ;  which  joint  trust  he  still  maintains  with  effi- 
ciency and  honor. 

He  was  one  of  the  incorporates  of  the  Odd  Fellows'  Hall 
Association  of  the  city  of  New  York,  and  has  been  on  the  Board 
of  Managers  since  its  organization  in  1844.  At  the  death  of  P. 
G.  Sire  Kennedy,  Wilson  Small  succeeded  him  as  President  of 
the  Board,  an  office  he  now  holds. 

In  the  Public  School  Department  he  served  as  School  Trustee 
and  Commissioner  from  1843  until  about  the  year  1868,  and  made 
an  excellent  and  efficient  officer  in  either  capacity. 

In  1843  he  united  with  the  Order  of  Druids,  and  was  a, 
member  of  Sylvan  Grove.  In  1846  he  joined  Manitou  Lodge, 
No.  106,  F.  &  A.  M.,  in  which  he  still  retains  membership,  and 
has  attained  to  the  33d  Degree  in  that  fraternity. 

In  politics  he  has  ever  been  a  consistent  Democrat,  and  a 
zealous  and  influential  member  of  the  Tammany  Society ;  of 
which  he  was  a  Sachem  for  many  years,  and  also  its  Treasurer. 
In  the  past  few  years  he  has  occupied  the  office  of  Sagamore. 

When  a  young  man  he  was  strongly  prejudiced  against  secret 
societies,  and  avoided  association  with  them,  until  induced  to  join 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    NEW    YORK.  4:19 

the  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  in  1833,  when  his  narrow-minded  views 
gave  place  to  more  liberal  sentiments,  and  he  at  once  became 
deeply  interested  in  the  humanitarian  work  of  the  Order,  and 
has  been  a  faithful  and  zealous  co-worker  in  this  field  ever  since. 
He  was  initiated  in  New  York  Lodge,  No.  10,  on  the  3d  of 
July,  1833 ;  which  then  held  its  meetings  in  Timolat's  Bath 
House,  a*  small  two-story  yellow  building,  on  the  south  side  of 
Pearl  Street,  between  Centre  and  Elm  Streets.  On  the  night 
of  his  initiation  he  was  appointed  L.  H.  S.  of  N.  G.,  and  at  the 
commencement  of  the  ensuing  term  he  was  made  R.  H.  S.  of 
N.  G.  He  then  succeeded  to  the  chairs  of  Y.  G.  and  N.  G.  in 
successive  order,  and  was  admitted  to  membership  in  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  New  York  in  August,  1834.  As  the  constitutional 
provisions  of  the  Grand  Lodge  at  that  time  required  all  sessions 
to  be  held  in  the  city  of  Albany,  P.  G.  Small  manifested  no 
general  interest  in  the  workings  of  that  body  beyond  an  occa- 
sional visit,  prior  to  the  removal  of  its  seat  of  government  to  the 
city  of  New  York,  August  24th,  1836,  when  it  met  in  Masonic 
Hall,  then  on  Broadway,  second  building  south  of  Pearl  Street. 
The  first  appointment  of  P.  G.  Small  was  that  of  G.  Guardian, 
into  which  office  he  was  inducted  on  the  26th  of  September,  1836. 
The  disaffection  in  the  Order  growing  out  of  the  removal  of 
the  Grand  Lodge  from  Albany  to  New  York,  led  Bro.  Small 
into  active  participation  in  the  exciting  transactions  that  ensued, 
and  brought  him  into  intimate  relations  with  John  A.  Kennedy, 
that  were  only  terminated  by  the  death  of  the  last  named.  That 
the  interest  of  the  subject  of  this  notice  in  the  Order  never  flagged 
for  a  moment,  the  pages  of  its  recorded  history  furnish  abundant 
evidence.  At  the  reorganization  of  the  G.  Lodge  by  a  committee 
of  the  G.  L.  U.  S.,  under  a  charter  dated  November  21st,  1837,  the 
officers  were  installed  by  P.  G.  S.  "Wildey — among  whom  was 
"Wilson  Small  as  G.  Warden.  At  the  annual  session  of  1839  he 
was  chosen  as  Representative  of.  the  G.  Lodge  to  the  G.  L.  IT.  S., 
as  the  successor  of  John  A.  Kennedy,  who  was  elected  G.  Master 
of  the  jurisdiction.  As  the  supreme  body  failed  to  hold  a  session 
for  want  of  a  quorum  in  that  year,  Rep.  Small  did  not  perform 
any  service  in  that  capacity  until  the  session  of  1840,  when  he 
was  made  chairman  of  the  Finance  Committee.  On  the  5th  of 
August  of  the  same  year  he  was  elected  to  succeed  John  A.  Ken- 
nedy as  Grand  Master  of  New  York,  and  was  installed  on  the  7th. 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

His  administration  was  a  remarkable  success,  as  may  be  inferred 
from  the  increase  in  lodges,  16 ;  in  initiations,  2833  ;  in  contrib- 
uting members,  4147 ;  and  in  lodge  receipts,  $30,450.17.  This 
rapid  stride  will  be  better  understood  when  it  is  stated  that  the 
previous  fiscal  year  closed  with  28  lodges,  3912  members,  and 
$16,259.34  lodge  receipts.  At  the  annual  session  in  1842,  he  was 
again  honored  by  the  G.  Lodge  to  represent  it  in  the  G.  L.  U.  S. 
for  the  term  of  one  year,  during  the  administration  of  his  friend 
John  A.  Kennedy  as  G.  Sire,  to  whom  he  was  bound  by  stronger 
ties  than  those  of  ordinary  friendship.  Singular  to  relate,  he 
again  succeeded  Kennedy,  as  chairman  of  the  Committee  on  Pe- 
titions. On  the  occasion  of  the  re-establishment  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Massachusetts,  in  the  city  of  Boston,  on  the  23d  of  De- 
cember, 1841,  P.  G.  Small  rendered  valuable  assistance  to  Grand 
Sire  Kennedy,  of  which  he  made  honorable  mention  in  his  annual 
report.  In  April,  1843,  Grand  Sire  Kennedy  issued  a  special 
commission  to  P.  G.  Rep.  Small  to  open  and  institute  a  Grand 
Encampment  in  and  for  Connecticut,  which  duty  he  performed 
in  New  Haven,  on  the  20th  of  that  month.  Early  in  the  same 
year  he  deputized  Bro.  Small  to  proceed  to  Boston  and  institute 
Massasoit  Encampment,  No.  1,  the  duties  of  which  trust  he  dis- 
charged on  the  llth  of  February,  1843.  At  the  opening  of  the 
annual  session  in  1843,  his  friend  Kennedy  made  him  Grand 
Marshal  pro  tern,  of  the  G.  L.  of  U.  S.,  in  recognition  of  personal 
aid  and  valuable  services  during  his  administration.  Shortly  after 
Bro.  Kennedy's  advent  into  New  York,  he  conceived  the  neces- 
sity for  an  Encampment  to  be  located  in  that  city,  and  was 
among  the  applicants  to  No.  1,  at  Albany,  for  the  charter  for  Mt. 
Hebron,  No.  2.  On  the  night  of  its  institution,  in  1834,  he  pro- 
posed his  co-laborer,  Bro.  Small,  who  was  duly  initiated  at  the 
same  meeting.  In  1839  Bro.  Kennedy  induced  Bro.  Small  to 
withdraw  from  No.  2,  and  become  one  of  the  petitioners  for  a 
charter  for  No.  3,  to  be  known  as  "  Mt.  Sinai  Encampment," 
which  was  instituted  in  Shakspeare  Hall,  Duane  and  "William 
Streets,  New  York,  July  13th,  1839,  with  the  requisite  number 
of  subordinates.  Bros.  Kennedy  and  Small  immediately  inaugu- 
rated measures  for  obtaining  a  charter  for  a  Grand  Encampment, 
as  a  new  field  in  which  to  exercise  their  labors  and  interests  in 
the  Order.  The  dispensation  was  accordingly  applied  for,  and 
the  Grand  Encampment  of  New  York  was  duly  instituted  in  the 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP   IN    NEW   YORK.  421 

rooms  of  Knickerbocker  Lodge,  Shakspeare  Hall,  New  York 
City,  on  the  18th  of  August,  1839,  when  Bro.  Small  was  elected 
and  installed  Grand  Senior  Warden.  In  1840  he  passed  the 
chair  of  Grand  High  Priest,  and  in  1841  was  made  Grand  Patri- 
arch. In  December,  1840,  he  withdrew  from  Mt.  Sinai,  No.  3, 
and  became  a  petitioner  for  Mosaic,  No.  6,  which  was  instituted 
in  the  same  month,  at  the  corner  of  Grand  and  Clinton  Streets. 
He  subsequently  reunited  with  Mt.  Hebron,  No.  2  (now  No.  4), 
in  which  he  still  retains  membership.  While  his  aims  and  ser- 
vices and  judgment  toward  the  Order  were  not  measurably  co-or- 
dinate with  those  of  Kennedy,  they  were,  to  a  large  degree,  coad- 
jutant.  He  was  a  sincere  admirer  and  an  earnest  supporter  of 
Kennedy  and  all  his  plans  for  the  elevation  of  the  institution  and 
the  spread  of  its  principles  and  benefits.  From  the  day  they  first 
met,  their  attachment  to  each  other  was  deep  and  lasting — their 
confidence  unshaken — their  manly  regard  untarnished.  In  the 
demise  of  Kennedy,  they  parted  as  they  lived — friends  and 
brothers. 

Thus  has  Bro.  Small  served  the  Order  for  nearly  half  a  century. 
His  love  and  admiration  for  the  institution  and  its  noble  prin- 
ciples are  as  fervent  and  sincere  to-day  as  in  the  past.  Although 
in  the  69th  year  of  his  age,  he  is,  to  all  appearance,  in  the  prime 
of  life.  He  occasionally  visits  the  annual  sessions  of  the  G. 
Lodge,  but  seldom  participates  in  the  debates  or  legislative  pro- 
ceedings. Whenever  an  occasion  arises  that  makes  it  necessary 
for  him  to  come  forward,  it  is  invariably  with  reluctance,  to  per- 
form a  duty,  not  to  court  applause,  which  has  no  charms  for  his 
pure  and  noble  mind.  His  addresses  are  always  distinguished 
by  their  brevity,  compression  and  close  application  to  the  point. 
His  life  has  been  set  off  with  that  graceful  modesty  and  reserve 
which  make  even  virtue  more  beautiful.  His  humanity  appears 
in  the  minutest  circumstances  of  his  conversation.  You  find  it 
in  the  benevolence  of  his  aspect,  the  complacency  of  his  beha- 
vior, and  the  tone  of  his  voice.  As  a  devout  and  devoted 
member  of  the  Episcopal  Church,  his  religion  is  sincere,  not 
ostentatious  and  affected.  In  acknowledging  God  he  finds  the 
purest  satisfaction  in  walking  in  His  fear.  He  recognises  a  re- 
ligion of  practica  as  one  which  teaches  light  and  truth,  love  and 
charity.  His  faith  has  never  deserted  him  in  all  the  vicissitudes  of 
existence,  and  he  has  shown  in  his  life  how  a  well-founded  trust 


422  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

may  "bring  happiness  to  the  human  heart.  In  his  political  career 
he  has  contributed  much  to  the  establishment  and  propagation  of 
educational  and  industrial  interests,  and  to  the  prosperity  of  his 
native  city.  He  has  always  been  true  to  this  great  aim.  His 
character  as  a  citizen,  an  official  and  an  Odd  Fellow,  is  uniform 
and  consistent  with  itself,  and  has  ever  been  held  in  the  highest 
estimation  and  appreciation.  His  sense  of  honor  is  lofty  and 
keen,  his  integrity  stern  and  inflexible ;  his  principles  are  founded 
in  reason  and  supported  by  virtue ;  and,  therefore,  are  not  at 
the  mercy  of  ambition,  avarice  or  resentment.  His  views  are  no 
less  steady  and  unshaken  than  just  and  upright. 

In  private  life  he  has  ever  excelled  in  those  qualities  that 
render  a  man  worthy  of  all  honest  praise,  love,  respect  and  emu- 
lation. May  the  remembrance  and  contemplation  of  his  many 
good  traits  of  character  inspire  others  with  a  desire  to  imitate 
them. 


UPTON'S   HOTEL,    DOCK   ST.,   PHILADELPHIA,    1821. 


CHAPTER   XVII. 

ODD  FELLOWSHIP  IN  PENNSYLVANIA. 

We  can  scarcely  find  language  in  which  to  record  onr  pride 
in  reviewing  the  early  history  of  Odd  Fellowship  in  Pennsylva- 
nia. It  lacks  the  incidents  of  peril  and  failure  and  resuscitation, 
but  has  in  lieu  of  them  a  growth  and  expansion  which  is  so 
:great  as  to  furnish  boundless  dramatic  material.  When  we  look 
into  the  origin  and  subsequent  career  of  its  lodges,  the  other 
parts  of  our  territory  seem  to  be  comparatively  barren.  In  some 
States  Odd  Fellowship  is  tolerated,  in  others  encouraged,  and  in 
others  is  a  potent  force;  but  in  Pennsylvania  the  Order  is  a  part 
of  the  body  politic,  and  is  enthroned  in  the  afiections  of  a  great 
people. 

PENNSYLVANIA  LODGE,  NO.  1. 

This  lodge  was  formed  in  the  City  of  Philadelphia,  State  of 
Pennsylvania,  December  26th,  1821,  at  the  public-house  of  a 
certain  John  Upton,  No.  66  Dock  Street,  west  of  Second  Street, 
south  side.  John  B.  Robinson,  of  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2,  of 
JX"ew  York,  being  in  Philadelphia  on  business,  in  company  with 
John  Upton,  invited  a  meeting  of  Odd  Fellows  at  Upton's  house, 
through  the  newspapers,  for  the  purpose  of  forming  an  Odd 
Fellows'  lodge.  The  meeting  accordingly  took  place,  the  lodge 
was  formed,  and  appropriately  named  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No. 
1.  Out  of  the  persons  present,  the  following  were  selected  as 
the  first  officers  of  the  lodge,  viz  :  John  Pearce,  N.  G. ;  James 
Day,  Y.  G. ;  John  B.  Robinson,  Sec. ;  John  Upton,  Treas. ;  and 
Samuel  Croucher,  Guardian.  The  lodge,  thus  formed,  has  sur- 
vived through  varied  fortunes,  until  the  present  time,  evincing 
through  its  extraordinary  career  a  wonderful  energy  of  adminis- 
tration and  tenacity  of  life.  The  first  member  admitted  was 
Thomas  Hepworth,  who  wras  substituted  as  Sec.  in  place  of  John 
B.  Robinson,  the  latter  being  a  resident  of  New  York,  thus  con- 
stituting the  lodge  of  five  resident  members.  The  lodge,  now 

(423) 


424  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

fully  officered,. continued  to  meet  at  Upton's,  and  transacted  busi- 
ness after  the  original  convivial  style  of  English  lodges  under 
the  jurisdiction  of  the  Manchester  Unity.       Success   resulted  ; 
the  members  rapidly  increased,  the  accessions  chiefly  being  Eng- 
lish and  Scotchmen.     Gratified  with  the  prosperity  which  had 
rewarded  their  efforts,  they  began  to  look  about  for  some  legal 
connection  for  the  lodge.     The  members  were  aware  that  properly 
chartered  lodges  existed  in  the  United  States,  and  were  desirous- 
of  forming  a  union  with  such.     To  this  end  a  correspondence 
was  first  opened  with  the  Maryland  organization  of  Odd  Fellows. 
This  proved  to  be  unsatisfactory.     Subsequently  application  was- 
made  to  Columbia  Lodge,  No.  1,  of  New  York.     This  lodge  had 
received  a  charter  from  Duke  of  Sussex  Lodge,  No.  2,  of  Liver- 
pool District,  Manchester  Unity.     Pending  this  application,  Co- 
lumbia Lodge,  No.  1,  united  with  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of 
the  U.  S.,  and  became  a  subordinate  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  New 
York,  which  the  former  supreme  body  had  created.     Pennsyl- 
vania Lodge,  No.  1,  thus  frustrated  in  its  purpose,  and  aware 
that  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.  had,  through  Thomas 
Wildey,  consummated  the  plan  of  uniting  the  scattered  lodges 
of  Odd    Fellows    under   its  jurisdiction,  by  adding  Columbia 
Lodge,  No.  1,  of  New  York,  and  Massachusetts  Lodge,  No.  lr 
of  Massachusetts,  to  its  subordinates,  at  once  listened  to  the  pro- 
posal on  that  subject,  and  accepted  a  charter  from  G.  Lodge  of 
Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.,  and  also  a  charter  for  the  G.  Lodge  of  Penn- 
sylvania.     These  two  charters  bear  date  respectively  13th  of 
June,  1823.     The  charter  for  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  was 
delivered  by  G.  M.  Wildey,  without  form ;  but  the  presentation 
of  the  charter  for  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  and  its  institu- 
tion, were  somewhat  formal,  on  27th  June,  1823.     Some  historic 
discrepancy  occurs  touching  this  date,  but  it  is  of  no  material 
importance.     (See  Journal  G.  L.  of  U.  S.,  Yol.  1,  page  58.) 

JUNE,  1823. 

This  month  forms  a  memorable  epoch  in  the  history  of  Odd 
Fellowship  in  America.  Previously  the  Order  was  scattered 
through  the  chief  cities  of  the  Union  ;  in  Baltimore,  Boston,  New 
York  and  Philadelphia,  and  possibly  in  some  cities  in  the  South, 
wholly  disintegrated  and  unaffiliated .;  the  lodges  having  no  rela- 


JOHN  UPTON. 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  425 

tions  whatever  with  each  other ;  little,  if  any,  standing  in  the 
community,  and  less  promise  in  the  future.  A  union  was  now- 
formed  of  all  into  a  systematic  body,  having  one  law,  one  ritual 
and  one  language  for  its  guidance.  The  transition  was  extraor- 
dinary and  thorough;  from  confusion  and  chaos  to  order  and 
uniformity ;  from  obscurity  to  publicity,  subject  to  general  ob~ 
servation  and  responsibility.  Under  such  an  ordeal,  by  the- 
wonderful  skill  and  energy  of  the  master  spirit,  Thomas  Wildey,. 
was  a  federal  union  formed  in  Odd  Fellowship,  on  the  model 
of  our  national  system ;  a  moral  temple,  than  which  the  world 
can  boast  none  greater.  But  we  return  to  Pennsylvania  Lodge,, 
and  proceed  to  consider  the  personnel  of  which  it  was  formed. 

JOHN  UPTON. 

This  name  is  intimately  associated  with  early  Odd  Fellowship 
in  Pennsylvania.  We  pass  him  down  to  posterity  accordingly  in 
his  original  character,  plain  and  unpretending,  and  distinguished 
only  by  his  just  claim  to  respect  as  a  citizen,  and  to  zeal,  energy 
and  devotion  as  an  Odd  Fellow.  It  is  due  to  him  and  to  his  as- 
sociates, as  the  originators  of  the  lodge,  that  their  early  transac- 
tions and  successful  movements  in  the  cause  should  be  recorded ; 
that  those  who  have  lived  to  enjoy  the  blessings  which  the  Order 
confers,  should  know  and  appreciate  the  source  from  which  they 
were  derived.  John  Upton  was  born  in  the  county  of  Cheshire, 
England,  July  28th,  1772,  and  was  a  hatter  by  trade.  Early  in 
his  boyhood  his  taste  and  inclination  led  him  to  adopt  a  nautical 
life.  He  passed  twelve  years  in  the  British  navy,  five  of  which 
were  on  board  ship  with  Admiral  Nelson  ;  during  Nelson's  cruise- 
on  the  Nile,  and  in  his  celebrated  battle,  near  Trafalgar,  Oct. 
1805,  with  the  combined  fleets  of  France  and  Spain,  in  which  he- 
won  the  victory  but  lost  his  life.  Upton  retired  from  the  sea  as 
he  increased  in  years,  when  he  worked  at  his  trade.  During  this 
period  he  united  with  the  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  under  the  Man- 
chester Unity.  He  emigrated,  after  the  war  of  1812,  to  the 
United  States,  and  is  found  in  Philadelphia  in  1816.  He  fol- 
lowed his  trade  in  that  city  industriously,  being  a  skilled  me- 
chanic; success  crowned  his  labors,  and  he  was  Boon  rewarded 
with  a  competence.  He  intermarried  with  an  American  lady 
about  1820,  when  he  opened  the  hotel  referred  to,  where  he  lived- 


42G 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


until  his  death,  Aug.  12th,  1853.  His  success  in  his  new  calling 
soon  enabled  him  to  purchase  the  premises,  and  to  otherwise 
enlarge  his  estate.  His  widow  survived  him  for  several  years, 
and  one  son,  named  James  L.  Upton,  a  highly  respectable  and 
wealthy  citizen,  still  resides  in  the  city  of  Philadelphia,  a 
part  of  whose  estate  consists  of  the  Upton  House,  No.  66  Dock 
Street.  John  Upton  sustained  during  his  entire  life  the  charac- 
ter of  an  honest  and  honorable  man,  who  was  prompt  and  punc- 
tilious in  business.  He  enjoyed  the  esteem  and  respect  of  his 
brethren  and  fellow-citizens.  For  the  picture  from  which  the 
accompanying  engraving  was  made,  we  are  indebted  to  his  son, 
Mr.  James  L.  Upton. 

Dock  Street  is  the  exception  to  "William  Penn's  right-angled 
plan  for  the  streets  in  the  Quaker  City,  and  mars  the  cheequer- 
board  arrangement  Dickens  describes  as  "  distressingly  regular." 
Upton's  Hotel  was  located  on  this  street,  a  few  doors  west  of 
Second  Street,  south  side,  within  one  square  of  the  Custom- 
house, then  in  Second  Street,  one  square  from  the  Pennsyl- 
vania Bank,  and  the  old  Coffee  House,  used  as  a  Merchants' 
Exchange,  in  Second  Street,  north  of  Walnut  Street,  and  one 
square  from  the  Girard  Bank,  at  the  head  of  Dock,  on  Third 
Street.  It  was  in  the  centre  of  business,  surrounded  by  the 
best  of  buildings  and  offices.  It  was  a  popular  first-class  house, 
and  commanded  a  large  patronage.  As  far  as  our  researches 
have  extended,  we  have  no  evidence  of  the  existence  of  any 
records  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  up  to  March  8th,  1826. 
Occasionally  we  meet  with  a  gleam  of  light  in  that  direction, 
from  the  barren  minutes  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  State,  and  some 
fugitive  scraps  of  history,  in  the  form  of  detached  reports  and 
decisions,  which  have  survived  by  accident  or  good  fortune. 
Some  memorials  of  that  period  also  have  been  preserved  as  tradi- 
tions from  contemporaries  and  faint  surviving  recollections. 
There  are,  however,  on  the  roll,  names  which  are  imperishable. 
They  have  left  upon  our  annals  such  an  impress,  that  the  history 
would  be  incomplete  were  we  to  ignore  them.  Such  of  this  class 
as  we  shall  distinguish,  are  representative  men,  and  specimens 
of  the  average  early  membership. 

JOHN    PEABCE. 

John  Pearee,  born  in  England,  was  a  master  mechanic.  He 
oarne  to  this  country,  and  began  business  as  a  plumber,  at  No.  12 


JOHN  PEARCE. 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  427 

South  Fifth  Street,  Philadelphia,  under  the  firm  of  John  Pearce 
&  Co.;  afterwards,  at  No.  76  South  Fourth  Street,  below  Walnut 
Street.  He  was  a  Manchester  Unity  initiate,  and  earnestly 
wedded  to  his  form  of  Odd  Fellowship.  He  was  a  man  of  de- 
cided character,  positive  and  unyielding  in  opinion.  He  repre- 
sented his  countrymen  literally  in  his  nature  and  disposition.  He 
was  emphatically  a  leader  in  his  day.  He  has  left  behind  him 
many  evidences  on  the  record  of  an  enlightened  mind,  as  well  as 
of  a  discriminating  judgment.  His  proclivity  to  self-will  and 
obstinate  adherence  to  his  opinions,  were  his  chief  peculiarities, 
and  in  a  great  degree  limited  his  influence  in  the  Order.  He  was 
successful  in  his  business  pursuits,  but  was  altogether  too  inde- 
pendent in  his  course  as  an  Odd  Fellow  to  be  personally  popular. 
He  often  displayed  a  peculiar  diffidence,  by  avoiding  personal 
advancement,  although  his  services  and  special  fitness  eminently 
pointed  him  out  as  the  proper  man  for  the  distinction. 

For  more  than  twenty  years  the  journal  of  the  G.  Lodge  of 
the  U.  S.  presents  him  as  an  earnest,  active  and  efficient  member. 
He  was  a  leading  spirit  in  many  valuable  enterprises,  and  always 
looked  forward  with  lively  hope  to  the  future  as  fraught  with  the 
success  of  Odd  Fellowship.  When  the  Order,  in  its  severe  trial, 
needed  bold,  persistent  and  true  friends,  Bro.  Pearce  acted  out 
his  true  character,  as  an  earnest,  firm  and  fearless  Odd  Fellow. 
No  danger,  however  alarming,  nor  threat,  however  portentous, 
deterred  him  from  a  just  defence  of  the  Order,  whose  firm  advo- 
cate he  ever  continued  to  be.  The  bitter  assaults  of  the  Anti- 
Masonic  party  in  Pennsylvania,  where  it  held  high  carnival, 
slandering,  denouncing  and  persecuting  secret  associations  and 
their  friends,  had  for  him  no  terrors,  and  did  not  relax  for  a 
moment  his  zeal  and  devotion  for  Odd  Fellowship.  His  charac- 
teristic nature  well  fitted  him  for  this  kind  of  w-arfare,  and  he 
indulged  it  to  his  heart's  content.  He  was  what  the  world  es- 
teems a  good-looking  man,  always  neat  and  tidy  in  his  apparel, 
and  pleasant  spoken.  His  stature  was  small,  but  his  frame  was 
square  and  solid ;  he  usually  wore  gold  spectacles,  and  altogether 
presented  a  fine  appearance.  His  conversational  powers  were 
good ;  he  was  an  agreeable  companion,  and  was  remarkable  for 
his  taste  and  general  information.  He  was  among  the  most  val- 
uable and  useful  Odd  Fellows  of  his  day,  and  continued  to  be 
a  lifelong  friend  of  the  Order. 


428 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


At  first  he  did  not  develop  much  energy  as  N.  G.  of  Lodge 
No.  1,  but  this  was  soon  exchanged  for  great  activity,  and  for  a 
ceaseless  devotion  to  the  Order.  In  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylva- 
nia, up  to  May,  1825,  he  was  a  quiet  member.  He  then,  it 
appears,  received  the  Golden  Rule  Degree.  In  temperament 
Pearce  and  Upton  resembled  each  other,  but  they  did  not  har- 
monize. This  discordance  probably  arose  from  Pearce's  uncom- 
promising opposition  to  the  convivial  feature  of  the  Order.  Thia 
element  of  dispute  was  a  growing  one,  arraying  the  members  on 
different  sides,  until  it  eventually  subsided,  after  the  removal  of 
the  lodge  to  Seventh  and  Chestnut  Streets,  in  March,  1826,  when 
this  feature  was  abolished.  Pearce  always  denounced  these  in- 
dulgences in  plain  English,  which  rendered  him  unpopular  with 
his  countrymen.  He  was  elected  D.  G.  M.  of  Pennsylvania,  June 
13th,  1826.  He  was  also  the  second  G.  Representative  from  the 
G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.,  appearing 
there  at  the  May  session,  1827.  From  June,  1827,  when  he  was 
an  unsuccessful  candidate  for  G.  Master,  his  name  does  not  ap- 
pear on  the  journal,  until  April  27th,  1829,  when  he  was  appointed 
chairman  of  a  committee  to  contract  for  fixing  up  the  Fifth  Street 
hall,  and  at  the  same  session  his  name  appears  on  other  impor- 
tant committees.  In  June,  1831,  he  was  again  nominated  for  the 
office  of  G.  M.  and  defeated.  In  1832  he  removed  to  New  Jer- 
sey, and  joined,  by  card,  New  Jersey  Lodge,  No.  1,  at  Camdeiu 
Upon  the  institution  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  New  Jersey,  Aug.  3d, 
1833,  he  was  elected  and  installed  the  first  G.  Master  of  that 
jurisdiction. 

Bro.  Pearce  represented  New  York,  as  Proxy  in  the  G.  L.  of 
U.  S.  in  1833,  and  the  G.  Lodge  of  New  Jersey  in  1834  and  1835, 
at  which  last  session  he  was  chosen  D.  G.  Sire.  He  presided 
over  that  Grand  Body  at  the  October  session,  1836,  and  at  the 
May  session,  1837,  in  consequence  of  the  sickness  of  the  then  G. 
Sire,  G.  Keyser,  who  died  September  19th,  1837.  Bro.  Pearce, 
in  virtue  of  his  official  position  as  D.  G.  Sire,  would,  under  the 
present  constitution,  have  succeeded  to  the  office  of  G.  Sire  for 
Bro.  Keyser's  unexpired  term,  but  such  was  not  the  provision  of 
the  then  constitution  ;  in  consequence  of  which  G.  S.  Wildey  was 
chosen  M.  W.  G.  S.  p.  £.,  until  the  installation  of  the  G.  Sire  elect. 
At  the  October  session,  1836,  and  May  session?  1837,  Bro.  Pearce 
was  a  Rep.  from  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pa.  to  the  G.  L.  of  the  U.  S., 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  429 

and  at  the  October  session,  1838,  when  he  was  an  unsuccessful 
candidate  again  for  G.  Sire.  In  1839,  at  the  session  of  the  G.  L. 
of  the  U.  S.  in  Philadelphia,  Bro.  Pearce  was  D.  G.  Sire  p.  t., 
and  at  the  annual  session  in  1840  he  made  a  report  from  the 
special  committee  on  the  New  York  controversy,  which  had  met 
in  Albany,  and  at  the  session  of  1841  he  again  reported  from  a 
special  committee  upon  the  subject  of  a  diploma  form.  Since 
that  period  his  name  does  not  appear  on  that  Journal.  He  sub- 
sequently removed  to  New  York  city.  In  the  latter  part  of  his 
life  he  became  a  Methodist  minister,  and  as  such,  G.  Sec.  Ridgely 
met  him  at  a  camp-meeting  near  the  city  of  Baltimore,  and  had 
the  pleasure  of  passing  a  pleasant  evening  with  him.  He  had  at 
that  time  fond  memories  of  his  early  love  for  Odd  Fellowship, 
and  discoursed  pridefully  of  its  magnificent  mission.  This  was 
about  the  year  1865.  He  died  in  1869.  His  death  was  an- 
nounced at  the  session  of  the  G.  L.  of  U.  S.  of  that  year,  by  Rep. 
Boss  of  New  Jersey,  as  Rev.  Bro.  John  Pearce,  P.  G.  Rep.  of 
New  Jersey. 

This  brief  biographical  sketch  presents  a  representative  man 
of  his  times,  who,  in  co-operation  with  his  compeers,  toiled 
earnestly  for  Odd  Fellowship  when  its  laborers  were  few  and  in- 
experienced. It  covers  a  period  of  twenty  years,  during  all  of 
which  time  he  was  a  zealous,  active,  and  devoted  brother  to  an 
unpopular  cause,  but  which,  in  his  opinion,  was  full  of  good  promise. 
He  was  called  to  fill  many  offices  of  the  Order,  from  that  of  N. 
G.  of  the  first  lodge  in  Pa.,  to  that  of  D.  G.  Sire  of  the  G.  Lodge 
of  the  U.  S.  John  Pearce's  name  will  go  down  to  posterity  as 
the  honored  cotemporary  of  and  co-laborer  with  Thomas  Wildey, 
and  it  will  be  ever  cherished  as  that  of  a  high-toned  and  honor- 
able citizen  and  enlightened  Odd  Fellow. 

His  connection  with  the  Order  in  New  Jersey  is  our  apology 
for  a  short  notice  of  its  introduction  into  that  locality. 

NEW   JERSEY. 

But  four  States  united  in  forming  a  G.  Lodge  of  the  United 
States.  No  new  States  came  in  until  1827  and  1829.  It  was  in 
the  latter  year  that  New  Jersey  was  invaded,  by  the  organization 
of  a  subordinate  lodge.  The  petition  came  from  brothers  George 
Dare,  William  A.  II.  Dare,  Ho  well  Stokes,  William  Middleton, 


430  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

and  George  Roseman.  The  G.  Committee  granted  them  a 
charter  for  New  Jersey  Lodge,  ~No.  1,  to  be  located  at  Camden. 
This  was  on  the  30th  day  of  March,  1829,  and  at  the  close  of 
the  first  decade.  The  Movable  Committee  say,  "We  visited 
Camden  in  New  Jersey,  and  opened  New  Jersey  Lodge,  No.  1. 
We  installed  their  officers,  furnished  them  with  necessary  infor- 
mation, and  left  them  with  a  good  prospect  of  success."  The 
early  history  of  this  mother  lodge  has  not  been  preserved.  It 
continued  until  the  year  1835,  when  its  charter  was  surrendered. 
It  lay  dormant  until  1847,  when  the  charter  was  reclaimed. 
Since  that  time  there  has  been  no  interruption  to  its  prosperity, 
and  it  is  now  strong  and  flourishing,  as  becomes  the  first  on  the 
roll  of  the  State. 

The  next  movement  was  made  in  Paterson.  The  traditions- 
claim  that  ancient  Odd  Fellowship  had  been  already  planted  in 
that  city.  It  seems  beyond  dispute  that  such  was  the  fact. 
These  informal  meetings  began  in  1828.  It  is  even  contended 
that  a  regular  lodge  was  instituted  under  a  charter  from  the 
Manchester  Unity,  but  no  such  document  has  been  found.  To 
the  contrary,  P.  G.  S.  Kennedy  attributes  the  first  movement  at 
this  place  to  quite  a  different  cause.  We  have,  in  the  chapter  on 
New  York,  told  the  story  of  the  erratic  course  of  Strangers' 
Refuge  Lodge,  No.  4,  of  that  jurisdiction.  The  lodge  was  ex- 
pelled for  insubordination.  It  then  set  up  as  a  G.  Lodge,  but 
had  no  success  in  that  direction,  and  was  glad  to  return.  A  dis- 
pensation was  granted  to  open  a  lodge  in  Paterson  by  this 
spurious  body,  and  the  document,  dated  October  18th,  1828,  pur- 
porting to  be  "  granted  by  the  Strangers'  Refuge  Lodge  of  the 
Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows,  No.  1,  of  the  City  of  New 
York,  to  five  brothers  residing  in  Paterson,  in  the  State  of  New 
Jersey,  to  form  a  lodge  under  the  name  and  title  of  the  Benevo- 
lent Lodge,  No.  1,  of  the  Paterson  District,"  is  preserved  in  the 
archives  of  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  In  June,  1829,  the  Movable  Com- 
mittee healed  the  breach  between  No.  4  and  its  Grand  Lodge. 
On  learning  of  the  outstanding  dispensation,  they  gave  notice  of 
its  invalidity,  and  requested  the  grantees  to  ask  for  a  legal  exist- 
ence. The  record  of  the  G.  L.  of  the  U.  S.  is  somewhat  contra- 
dictory of  this  story.  That  record  as  made  up,  is  two  months 
earlier  than  the  narrative.  It  reports  a  meeting  of  the  G.  Com- 
mittee on  the  10th  of  April,  1829,  to  receive  a  petition.  It  was 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  431 

from  Brothers  John  Armitage,  Abraham  Donokersly,  William 
"Williams,  John  Douckersly,  and  James  McKim,  praying  for  a 
charter  for  a  lodge  to  be  located  at  Paterson,  New  Jersey,  and 
hailed  by  the  title  of  Benevolent  Lodge,  No.  2.  The  prayer  was 
granted,  and  the  lodge  opened.  Kennedy  says  the  original  char- 
ter fee  which  was  to  have  been  paid  to  the  expelled  lodge,  was 
turned  over  to  Wildey  for  his  G.  Lodge.  It  is  probable  that  the- 
P.  G.  Sire  was  correct,  as  the  lodge  was  not  opened  nntil  1830.  It 
was  not  until  August  3,  1833,  that  the  G.  Lodge  of  New  Jersey 
was  established.  G.  S.  Wildey  presented  the  charter.  The  fol- 
lowing were  elected  and  installed :  John  Pearce,  G.  M. ;  Cris- 
pin Taylor,  D.  G.  M. ;  William  Thompson,  G.  W. ;  S.  Button,  G. 
Sec. ;  J.  R.  Graham,  G.  Treas.,  and  John  Pearce,  G.  Hep.  to  the 
G.  L.  of  the  U.  S. 

John  Pearce  had  the  high  honor  of  being  the  first  elected 
Representative  of  New  Jersey,  and  the  second  of  Pennsylvania, 
He  represented  the  latter  body  in  1829. 

But  to  return :  James  Day,  the  first  Yice  Grand  of  Lodge- 
No.  1,  was  born  in  England,  and  was  a  dry  goods  trader,  at  No. 
221  South  Second  Street,  Philadelphia.  He  was  an  active 
member  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  was  highly  respected  by  his- 
fellow-members,  and  occupied  a  very  respectable  standing  in  the 
business  community.  He  was  chosen  first  Y.  G.  by  common 
consent,  and  was  regarded  with  general  favor  in  the  organization 
of  the  lodge.  By  some  strange  perversity,  for  a  man  of  his  posi- 
tion in  society  and  of  his  education,  it  turned  out,  upon  his  own 
confession,  that  he  had  attended  the  first  meeting  at  Upton's  to 
form  a  lodge  of  Odd  Fellows  in  Philadelphia,  and  had  participated 
therein,  passing  himself  off  as  an  English  Odd  Fellow,  when  in 
fact  he  had  never  belonged  to  the  Order  in  England  or  elsewhere. 
This  fact  was  promptly  communicated  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
State,  where,  as  may  naturally  be  supposed,  it  gave  rise  to  morti- 
fication, mingled  with  indignation  and  a  general  spirit  of  resent- 
ment. The  character  of  the  offence  awakened  unanimity  of 
feeling,  which  resulted  in  the  following  peremptory  action, 
November  22d,  1824 : 

"  Whereas  Bro.  James  Day,  by  his  own  confession,  has  been 
guilty  of  imposition  and  fraud  upon  the  Order,  and  whereas 
such  imposition  and  fraud  is  deserving  of  censure  and  punish- 
ment, Therefore,  be  it  ordered,  that  the  said  James  Day  be  sus- 


432  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

pended  from  the  rights  and  privileges  of  the  Order,  until  the 
sitting  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.,  and  his  case  can 
be  decided  upon.  Resolved,  that  a  copy  of  these  proceedings 
be  sent  to  each  lodge  in  this  State,  and  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md. 
and  of  the  IT.  S."  The  case  thus  found  its  way  to  the  supreme 
tribunal  of  the  Order,  at  an  adjourned  session  of  that  body, 
held  at  Baltimore,  Nov.  22d,  1824.  This  being  also  the  precise 
date  of  its  presentation  in  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania, 
error  and  discrepancy  exist  which  we  cannot  reconcile  ;  it  is 
however  by  no  means  material.  The  order  adopted  in  the 
premises  in  the  supreme  body  was  also  peremptory,  and  in  the 
following  words :  "  Resolved,  that  it  be  recommended,  that  the 
said  Mr.  Day  be  excluded  from  entering  any  lodge  of  the  I.  O.  F. 
throughout  the  globe."  This  order  was  considered  at  a  special 
meeting  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pa.,  held  Dec.  16th,  1824,  concurred 
in,  and  the  G.  Sec.  instructed  to  inform  Mr  Day  of  his  expul- 
sion. Subsequently  Washington  Lodge,  No.  2,  of  Pa.,  of  which 
Mr.  Day  had  previously  become  a  member  by  deposit  of  his 
card  from  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  moved  by  sympathy  in 
Mr.  Day's  behalf,  which  his  personal  popularity  and  active  ser- 
vice as  an  Odd  Fellow  had  awakened,  appointed  a  committee 
to  petition  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  to  reconsider  its  deci- 
sion. This  proceeding  failed.  The  lodge  was  informed  that  the 
Supreme  Grand  Body  had  confirmed  the  expulsion. 

The  lodge  was  not  to  be  so  easily  disposed  of,  but  at  once 
addressed  a  further  appeal  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U. 
S.  To  this  appeal  a  response  was  received  declining  jurisdiction 
in  the  premises,  and  recommending  the  presentation  of  the 
.subject  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania.  These  facts  being 
made  known  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pa.,  accompanied  by  a  petition 
from  Day  for  restoration  to  membership  in  the  Order,  March 
14th,  1825,  the  following  resolution  was  adopted:  "Resolved, 
that  the  said  James  Day  be  admitted  to  the  rights  and  privi- 
leges of  the  Order,  on  condition  that  he  be  regularly  initiated, 
provided  the  concurrence  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the 
U.  S.  be  had  thereto,  and  that  a  committee  of  three  be  appointed  to 
confer  with  that  Grand  Body  on  the  subject."  At  a  special 
session  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pa.,  held  June  14th,  1825,  official 
information  was  communicated  to  that  Grand  Body,  of  the  con- 
currence of  the  Supreme  Grand  Body  in  the  re-admission  of 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  433 

James  Day  to  the  Order,  upon  compliance  with  the  condition 
imposed,  when  it  was  "JZesolved,  that  James  Day  shall  be  initi- 
ated by  this  G.  Lodge,  and  be  entitled  to  the  degrees  he  has 
received,  upon  payment  of  the  amount  of  fees  charged  by  the 
subordinate  lodge,  and  that  a  committee  be  appointed  to  convey 
the  above  resolution  to  James  Day  and  receive  his  answer."  At 
a  future  day,  specially  assigned,  August  1st,  1825,  James  Day 
ivas  regularly  initiated  into  the  Order  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pa., 
upon  payment  of  the  usual  fee,  and  by  special  permission  was 
readmitted  a  member  of  Washington  Lodge,  No.  2.  He  con- 
tinued for  many  years  thereafter  to  be  a  zealous  Odd  Fellow, 
highly  esteemed  and  respected  by  his  brethren.  The  wonder 
remains,  how  such  a  man  could  have  been  tempted  to  this  de- 
parture from  good  morals.  Thus  ends  this  singular  episode  in 
the  history  of  Pennsylvania  Odd  Fellowship. 

The  name  of  John  B.  Robinson  appears  on  the  record  as 
that  of  the  leading  spirit,  in  conjunction  with  John  Upton,  in 
the  formation  of  the  first  lodge  of  Odd  Fellows  in  Pennsylvania. 
After  he  had  witnessed  the  accomplishment  of  this  purpose,  he 
returned  to  New  York,  of  which  city  he  was  a  resident.  At  the 
institution  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  New  York  by  Thomas  Wildey, 
G.  M.,  June  24th,  1823,  he  was  installed  as  the  first  G.  M.  of 
that  jurisdiction.  We  judge  rather  by  the  services  which  he 
performed  in  the  two  jurisdictions  than  by  any  special  facts  noted 
on  the  record,  that  Bro.  Robinson  was  an  intelligent  and  useful 
member,  and  one  to  whose  influence  and  character  the  Order  is 
largely  indebted. 

Samuel  Croucher  was  also  of  English  origin,  and  carried  on 
the  business  of  cooper  and  gauger  at  No.  125  New  Street,  after- 
wards at  No.  22  Sugar  Alley.  He  was  the  Guardian  of  the 
first  lodge,  otherwise  we  have  no  mention  of  him  by  tradition  or 
on  the  record. 

PENNSYLVANIA    LODGE,    NO.    1. 

This  lodge  continued  to  prosper ;  the  existence  of  a  State  G. 
Lodge  had  not  diverted  the  attention  of  the  members  from  the 
subordinate.  No  other  lodge  had  been  instituted,  nor  was  any  in 
contemplation.  Washington  Lodge,  No.  2,  was  the  next  projected, 
'but  was  not  chartered  till  February  2d,  1824.  Little  change,  there- 
28 


434  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

fore,  was  produced  in  the  Order  by  the  formation  of  the  G.  Lodge- 
of  the  State.  The  all-absorbing  interest  still  centered  in  the 
subordinate.  There  the  convivial  spirits  met,  and  built  their 
social  altar,  around  which  they  nightly  worshipped,  practicing  Odd 
Fellowship  literally,  as  was  their  wont  in  England.  Pennsyl- 
vania Lodge,  'No.  1,  under  such  auspices,  became  a  success,, 
socially,  numerically,  and  financially,  although  the  jurisdiction 
was  convulsed  with  the  anti-masonic  delusion,  from  circumfer- 
ence to  its  very  center.  Odd  Fellowship  nevertheless  maintained 
its  position  in  spite  of  this  deluge  of  popular  fury.  The  greater 
the  persecution  directed  against  the  Order,  the  greater  the  per- 
sistent devotion  and  heroism  of  the  members ;  thus  the  severe 
trials  of  the  lodge  strengthened  its  love  for  the  Order  and  its 
tenacity  of  life.  This  experience  entered  into  its  education  and 
guided  its  career,  adding  to  its  members,  resources,  and  useful- 
ness. Ultimately  the  lodge  rode  out  this  great  storm  and  sur- 
vived it.  It  continued  to  prosper  until  the  end  of  the  first  de- 
cade of  the  Order,  maintaining  its  position,  filling  its  ranks  with 
new  recruits,  and  furnishing  abundant  material  for  forming  new 
lodges,  in  which  way  its  greatest  depletion  of  membership  arose. 
As  new  lodges  increased,  the  spirit  of  emulation  and  jealousy 
appeared  among  them  and  disturbed  their  harmony.  The  G, 
Lodge  began  to  increase  and  to  attract  interest,  and  Lodge  No. 
1  found  its  influence,  in  a  great  degree,  offset  by  younger  lodges. 
Ultimately,  suspecting  adverse  counsels  in  the  Grand  Body,  it 
became  unfriendly  to  it ;  which  alienation  increased  under  the 
encouragement  of  a  young  leader  in  the  lodge,  who  led  it  to  in- 
subordination. As  here  begins  an  important  epoch  in  the  history 
of  the  Order  in  Pennsylvania,  threatening  collision  of  jurisdic- 
tion and  endangering  its  union,  the  narrative  will  be  given  with 
sufficient  detail  to  render  its  salient  points  intelligible.  The 
facts  in  the  matter  of  the  insubordination  of  Pennsylvania 
Lodge,  No.  1,  and  the  ultimate  vacation  of  its  charter  by  the 
G.  Lodge  of  Pa.,  cover  quite  an  extended  area,  and  embrace 
various  complications,  but  the  essential  issues  lie  in  a  nutshell. 
"We  present  them  condensed  only  so  far  as  they  may  be,  without 
the  suppression  of  anything  material,  or  the  omission  of  any 
principle  or  practice  adjudicated.  We  have  already  stated  the 
case  generally  in  the  chapter  on  the  G.  L.  of  the  U.  S. 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP   IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  435 

Thomas  P.  McMahon,  a  member  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No. 
1,  was  a  candidate  for  the  office  of  N.  G.  of  the  lodge.  He  had 
not  served  in  the  office  of  Y.  G.  for  a  regular  term,  as  the  law 
required.  To  enable  the  lodge  to  overcome  this  objection,  it 
passed  a  resolution  to  suspend  the  law  requiring  service  as  Y. 
G.,  and  elected  and  installed  him  N.  G.  Exception  was  taken 
to  this  illegal  proceeding,  which  the  G.  Lodge  promptly  sustained. 
Contemporaneously  with  this,  an  appeal  came  before  the  G.  Lodge 
from  one  P.  G.  Field,  who  had  been  arraigned,  tried  and  expelled 
from  Lodge  No.  1  for  unbecoming  conduct.  The  state  of  irrita- 
tion produced  upon  Lodge  No.  1  by  the  very  decided  action  of 
the  G.  Lodge,  in  enforcing  a  general  law  coeval  with  the  exist- 
ence of  the  Order,  was  highly  inflamed  by  the  counsels  and  influ- 
ence of  Bro.  McMahon.  The  revolutionary  state  into  which  the 
lodge  was  plunged,  awakened  a  corresponding  purpose  in  the  G. 
Lodge  to  vindicate  its  authority.  Thus  the  issue  was  at  once 
raised  and  the  conflict  set  on  foot.  The  loyal  and  conservative 
minority  of  the  lodge  protested  in  vain,  and  ultimately  sixty-nine 
of  the  membership  of  Lodge  No.  1  presented  formal  charges 
against  T.  P.  McMahon,  their  N.  G.  Subsequently  a  second 
charge  was  preferred  against  Bro.  McMahon. 

These  charges  were  referred  to  a  committee,  who  reported 
unanimously,  that  the  charge  "  of  subverting  the  G.  Lodge  was 
fully  and  incontrovertibly  established."  A  communication  was 
received  from  Bro.  McMahon,  of  Lodge  No.  1,  accompanied  by 
a  protest,  which  was,  for  want  of  time,  postponed.  This  commu- 
nication was  considered  at  a  subsequent  day,  and  being  regarded 
as  indecorous,  an  order  was  passed  requiring  from  Bro.  McMahon 
an  apology  to  the  G.  Lodge.  A  suitable  apology  was  accordingly 
presented  and  accepted.  At  a  subsequent  meeting  of  the  G. 
Lodge,  the  following  communication  was  received  from  Lodge 
No.  1 :  "  Resolved,  that  the  G.  Lodge  be  requested  to  furnish 
this  lodge  a  copy  of  the  charges  preferred  against  P.  G.  Thomas  P. 
McMahon,  by  some  brothers  of  this  lodge,  so  that  we  may  ascer- 
tain whether  he  is  guilty  or  not,  and  if  not  guilty,  that  the  said 
charges  may  be  not  recorded  against  him."  This  communication 
was  postponed  for  the  time  being.  Meanwhile,  the  committee 
to  whom  the  appeal  of  Bro.  Field  had  been  referred,  made  a  re- 
port, reversing  the  decision  of  expulsion  against  him  by  Pennsyl- 
vania Lodge,  No.  1,  and  ordering  his  restoration  to  membership. 


436 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


Upon  the  reception  of  this  decision  by  Pennsylvania  Lodge, 
a  perfect  tempest  of  passion  carried  away  the  majority,  who 
passed  a  resolution  peremptorily  to  return  the  paper  to  the  G. 
Lodge.  This  was  accordingly  done ;  whereupon  the  G.  Lodge 
took  proper  order  to  vacate  the  charter  of  the  lodge.  The  execu- 
tion of  this  order  was  referred  to  a  special  committee.  Their 
report,  accompanied  with  the  following  resolution,  was  made  to 
the  G.  Lodge,  and  was  adopted,  yeas  38,  nays  7 :  "  Resolved, 
that  the  Warrant  or  Dispensation  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1, 
be  vacated,  and  the  said  lodge  be  dissolved,  for  a  violation  of  the 
rules  and  regulations  of  the  Order  and  of  this  G.  Lodge."  The 
G  M.  accordingly  proceeded  to  carry  into  effect,  as  far  as  was 
practicable,  the  order  of  vacation ;  but  in  the  effort  to  get  the 
charter  of  the  lodge,  it  was  found  that  it  had  been  clandestinely 
removed.  Bro.  McMahon,  meanwhile,  having  apologized  to  the 
G.  Lodge,  after  his  apology  had  been  declared  satisfactory,  pre- 
sented a  certificate  of  election  as  a  P.  N.  G.  of  Pennsylvania 
Lodge,  No.  1.  A  ballot  took  place,  and  it  was  found  that  four 
black  balls  had  been  deposited;  the  ballot  was  thereupon  renewed, 
with  the  same  result.  Thus  ended  this  senseless,  stubborn  and 
wholly  unjustifiable  conflict  of  authority  between  a  subordinate 
and  its  superior.  But  the  struggle  on  the  part  of  No.  1  did  not 
end  here.  Upon  the  refusal  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pa.  to  admit  P. 
G.  McMahon  to  membership,  an  informal  appeal  was  made  by 
Lodge  No.  1  to  Bro.  Thomas  Wildey,  then  G.  Sire,  which  he  in- 
cautiously, and  without  authority  of  law,  entertained,  and  thus 
unwisely  gave  "  aid  and  comfort  "  to  that  lodge.  His  decision, 
had  it  referred  exclusively  to  the  abstract  question  as  to  whether 
a  G.  Lodge  could  go  outside  of  a  P.  G.'s  certificate  of  proper 
service  in  the  chair  under  the  seal  of  his  lodge  for  a  full  term, 
and  had  he  been  authorized  by  law  to  take  cognizance  of  the 
appeal,  might  have  been  sound  and  conformable  to  our  laws ;  but 
under  the  circumstances  was  wholly  unwarranted. 

The  G.  L.  of  Pa.  so  held,  and  firmly  insisted  on  vindicating 
its  authority,  to  which  Bro.  Wildey  and  the  G.  L.  of  the  U.  S.  in 
the  end  gracefully  yielded.  Thus  ended  the  unfortunate  conflict. 
The  loyal  material  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  was  subse- 
quently re-chartered,  and  with  various  fortunes  still  survives. 
To  avoid  detail  we  have  omitted  the  quotation  of  official  pro- 
ceedings, authorities  and  correspondence. 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP   IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  437 

The  disloyal  element  continued  a  bitter  rebellion  for  some 
year  or  two,  claiming  to  be  the  true  G.  Lodge  of  the  State,  and 
struggling  for  the  funds  of  the  lodge.  Receiving  no  countenance 
or  encouragement  from  the  legitimate  Order  anywhere,  it  ulti- 
mately submitted  to  inevitable  collapse  and  disappeared.  A 
considerable  portion  of  the  funds  was  recovered  by  the  newly 
chartered  lodge.  There  are  some  fugitive  memorials  of  this  early 
and  serious  rebellion  against  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pa.,  but  they  rather 
interest  the  local  jurisdiction  than  the  Order  at  large ;  we  accord- 
ingly pass  them,  remarking  only,  that  the  defence  of  the  disloyal 
lodge  is  presented  in  a  printed  pamphlet,  entitled  "  The  Testi- 
mony of  Truth,"  published  in  Philadelphia  during  the  contro- 
versy, to  which  the  reader  is  referred. 

After  passing  this  severe  ordeal,  the  reorganized  Pennsylvania 
Lodge,  No.  1,  maintained  its  former  good  standing,  and  con- 
tributed its  full  share  of  materials  for  new  lodges,  which  were 
now  springing  up,  when  suddenly  and  unexpectedly,  at  a  meeting 
of  the  lodge,  July  5th,  1843,  when  but  few  members  were  present, 
without  notice,  a  resolution  was  passed  to  surrender  the  charter 
of  the  lodge,  its  books  and  funds,  to  the  G.  Lodge.  So  soon  as 
this  information  was  generally  diffused  among  the  brotherhood, 
it  awakened  a  general  sentiment  of  mingled  surprise  and  sorrow. 
The  prompt  and  decided  course  of  the  G.  Master  of  the  State  soon 
checked  this  movement  and  preserved  the  life  of  the  lodge. 
Upon  the  application  of  a  constitutional  number  of  the  members 
for  a  restoration  of  the  charter,  it  was,  on  July  24th,  1843,  re- 
stored, and  on  July  26th,  1843,  the  lodge  was  re-instituted  by  G. 
M.  John  C.  Yeager,  after  an  interregnum  of  two  meetings. 
Thus,  with  the  loss  of  official  life,  by  surrender  of  charter  in 
1829,  making  altogether  four  omissions  of  regular  meetings  in 
54  years,  this  lodge  presents  a  career  of  official  life  most  extra- 
ordinary. 

It  has  earned  a  proud  record.  It  is  still  a  great  and  flour- 
ishing lodge,  with  a  hundred  and  twenty-four  members,  three 
thousand  dollars  in  the  treasury,  and  a  resolution  fixed  in  the 
hearts  of  its  members  to  hold  its  proud  position  as  the  pioneer 
lodge  of  Pennsylvania.  Few  lodges  or  societies  of  men  have 
passed  through  the  ordeal  to  which  this  lodge  has  been  subjected. 
Such  appears  to  have  been  the  experience  of  every  pioneer 
effort  in  social  organization,  moral  reform,  science,  art  or  general 


4,38  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

philosophy,  in  none  of  which  has  ultimate  success  been  accom- 
plished without  an  arduous  struggle.  Extraordinary  circum- 
stances produce  extraordinary  men,  who  are  developed  and 
brought  to  the  front  by  them.  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  is  an 
illustration  of  this  principle ;  for  in  every  one  of  its  many 
trials,  during  its  battle  for  life,  it  could  always  rely  upon  the  aid 
and  co-operation  of  the  best  and  most  reliable  material.  It  is  to 
be  hoped  that  this  spirit  of  devotion  to  our  Order  will  never  die, 
indeed  that  it  may  never  slumber,  in  the  good  old  commonwealth 
of  Pennsylvania,  and  that  Lodge  'No.  1  may  be  perpetual. 

SUBORDINATE    LODGES    DURING    THE    FIRST    DECADE. 

Washington  Lodge,  No.  2,  the  second  lodge  instituted  in 
Pennsylvania,  was  located  in  Philadelphia ;  it  was  also  the  first 
chartered  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  State,  No.  1  having  derived 
its  charter  from  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.  The 
charter  of  No.  2  was  granted  February  2d,  1824,  upon  the  pe- 
tition of  R.  H.  Bartle,  David  Perry,  R.  Travellers,  Henry  Cross, 
Thomas  Weatherby,  James  Clark  and  John  Sturges.  The  lodge 
was  instituted  March  23d,  1824.  Its  career  since  that  day  has 
been  a  fortunate  one.  Its  progress  has  been  onward  in  an  un- 
broken line  of  official  life.  No  check  or  hindrance  of  any  kind 
has  interrupted  its  good  fortune.  Nor  has  it  ever  entirely  sus- 
pended payment  of  weekly  benefits  to  its  sick,  for  over  a  half 
century.  None  of  its  founders  now  survive,  and  many  of  their 
cotemporaries  have  also  passed  away.  The  minutes  of  the  lodge 
have  been  well  kept,  and  are  carefully  preserved.  These  valu- 
able memorials  indicate  that  no  one  lodge  in  the  jurisdiction 
has  contributed  more  liberally,  from  its  ranks  and  from  its 
treasury,  for  the  diffusion  and  welfare  of  Odd  Fellowship. 

Lodges  Nos.  3,  8,  9, 13,  22  and  23  were  chiefly  recruited  from 
this  lodge.  The  last  two,  Nos.  22  and  23,  were  liberally 
assisted  by  a  money  contribution,  amounting  to  $377.88.  It  has 
had  a  great  tenacity  of  life,  considering  the  heavy  drafts  made 
upon  it  for  the  formation  of  new  lodges,  as  well  as  the  natural 
losses  from  death,  during  its  continued  career.  Superadd  to 
this  heavy  drain  the  fearful  and  ceaseless  loss  arising  from  non- 
payment .of  dues,  wrhich  surpasses  the  mortality  of  the  member- 
ship, and  we  may  well  pause  and  admire  the  spirit  of  devotion 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  4:39 

and  love  for  Odd  Fellowship  which  has  so  bravely  sustained 
Washington  Lodge,  No.  2,  especially  when  we  consider  that  all 
the  early  lodges  set  out  upon  the  prevailing  erroneous  system  of 
•"  dues  and  benefits,"  without  regard  to  the  just  proportion  of 
the  one  to  the  other,  arising  out  of  the  character  and  nature  of 
the  risk,  the  circumstances  of  age,  health,  and  such  other  con- 
siderations as  in  a  greater  or  less  degree  control  the  situation. 

Here  it  may  be  appropriately  remarked,  for  the  benefit 
of  existing  lodges,  that  if  proper  consideration  had  been  given 
to  the  subject  of  "  dues  and  benefits "  in  early  years,  and  to 
the  proper  and  just  relation  between  them  in  regulating, 
-according  to  scientific  rules,  the  ever-increasing  and  varying 
risks  of  human  life,  instead  of  persistently  and  recklessly  defy- 
ing their  daily  monitions,  our  lodges  would  be  as  young  and 
vigorous,  financially,  as  when  in  the  meridian  of  life  and 
crowded  with  members.  The  records  of  this  lodge  are  full  of 
experience,  and  demonstrate  forcibly  the  value  of  such  organiza- 
tions. Instances  are  shown  of  relief  to  confirmed  and  chronic 
invalids,  who  have  been  pensioners  year  after  year  until  death ; 
during  all  which  period  the  lodge  has  faithfully  discharged  its 
•duty.  In  1862  the  funds  of  the  lodge  were  so  reduced  that  it 
had  to  appeal  for  aid  to  the  sister  lodges  of  the  State.  This 
appeal  was  promptly  and  generously  responded  to.  Washington 
Lodge,  No.  2,  was  thereby  enabled  to  maintain  its  position  and 
standing  in  the  Order.  It  is  at  this  time  in  a  flourishing  condi- 
tion, with  232  members,  and  $2574.37  in  its  treasury.  In  March, 
187,4,  it  celebrated  its  semi-centennial  anniversary.  On  that 
occasion  an  interesting  address  was  delivered  by  Thomas  M. 
Armstrong,  P.  G.  The  statements  made  by  the  orator  were 
chiefly  of  interest,  by  reason  of  their  recital  of  memorials  of  early 
Odd  Fellowship  in  Pennsylvania.  From  this  address  we  find 
that  its  financial  condition,  at  the  close  of  the  first  quarter,  was 
.as  follows :  Received  from  members,  $48.09 ;  from  bar,  $41.37 ; 
from  the  proceeds  of  a  ball,  $7.67 ;  making  a  total  of  $97.13. 
The  expenses  were  $84.18 ;  leaving  a  balance  in  the  treasury  of 
$12.95.  The  initiation  fee  was  $2.00,  weekly  dues  6£  cents; 
fines,  which  appeared  to  be  an  important  item  of  revenue,  were 
large  and  embraced  a  wide  field.  The  by-laws  provided  that 
every  brother  should  pay  6i  cents  per  week,  whether  he  attended 
the  lodge  or  not. 


440  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Originally,  in.  England,  tradition  says,  there  were  no  regular 
dues  assessed,  but  only  those  present  were  required  to  pay  6i 
cents  on  the  Warden's  axe.  This  by-law  would  appear  to  confirm 
that  tradition.  The  early  minutes  also  enforce  this  idea,  and 
show  that  visiting  brethren  were  required  to  pay  6i  cents. 
Visitors  were  frequently  invited  to  occupy  the  officers'  chairs,  and 
to  participate  in  the  discussions  and  business  of  the  evening. 
Relief  was  also  extended,  as  the  demand  arose,  proportionately 
to  the  state  of  the  treasury  and  the  necessities  of  the  case.  Can- 
didates under  21  years  of  age  were  eligible  to  membership  up  to 
September,  1826,  after  which,  and  for  a  considerable  time  after 
the  first  decade,  the  G.  Lodge  exercised  the  prerogative  of  grant- 
ing dispensations  to  lodges  for  such  a  purpose.  At  the  beginning 
of  the  beneficial  system,  the  amount  generally  allowed  was  $2.50 
per  week.  The  initiation  fee  varied  from  two  to  three  dollars, 
until  it  ultimately  reached  $7.50,  which  last  amount  created  a 
decided  opposition  among  the  lodges,  resulting  in  the  establish- 
ment, by  law,  of  a  minimum  rate  of  $5.00,  leaving  the  maximum 
to  the  discretion  of  the  lodge.  Another  article  of  the  by-laws 
which  suggests  the  English  system  of  membership,  was  the  pro- 
vision of  25  cents  for  a  deposit  of  card. 

The  withdrawal  card  used  in  Pennsylvania  during  the  latter 
part  of  the  first  decade,  when  each  lodge  supplied  its  own  cards, 
contained  the  following  proviso :  "  The  brother  who  holds  this 
certificate  must  deposit  the  same  in  a  lodge,  after  getting  employ- 
ment, provided  he  is  within  five  miles  of  where  a  lodge  is  held." 
As  it  was  obligatory  upon  the  brother  to  deposit  his  card,  under 
such  circumstances,  it  must  have  been  correspondingly  obligatory 
upon  the  lodge  to  receive  it.  This  loose  system,  with  many  other 
illy  devised  schemes,  was  superseded  by  the  necessity  of  proper 
protection  to  the  lodges  and  of  their  treasury.  It  was  wholly 
abandoned,  and  the  wise  and  prudent  system  adopted,  giving  the 
lodge  the  right  of  investigation  of  character,  of  ballot,  and  the 
payment  of  proper  fees.  It  was  in  fact  the  main  source  of  diffi- 
culty between  the  American  Order  and  the  Manchester  Unity, 
at  Wigan,  England,  in  1842,  on  arranging  for  visitations  to 
lodges  by  their  respective  members,  to  each  other's  lodges,  and  it 
ever  will  continue  to  be  a  difficulty  in  that  direction,  when  that 
question  shall,  if  ever,  be  again  seriously  considered.  The  term 
of  office,  at  the  time  referred  to,  was  for  three  months,  or  a 
quarter. 


ODD   FELLOWSHIP    IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  441 

As  the  Order  grew  numerically,  the  contest  became  active 
among  the  members,  the  P.  Grands  frequently  opposing  the  K 
G.  for  the  K  G.'s  chair,  and  several  candidates  running  for  each 
chair.  The  zeal  and  activity  of  the  members  of  this  lodge  was  a 
matter  of  observation  and  remark.  In  1828,  the  lodge  initiated 
109  candidates;  in  1829,  152  were  initiated.  The  record  also- 
shows  that  many  were  rejected.  To  contrast  Odd  Fellows'  lodges 
in  early  days,  as  then  conducted,  with  those  of  the  present  day, 
we  present  the  following  account  of  a  lodge  meeting,  furnished 
by  P.  G.  M.  Pryor,  of  this  jurisdiction,  who  was  initiated  April 
13th,  1824. 

There  was,  says  Bro.  Pryor,  in  one  corner  of  the  lodge- 
room  a  regularly  fitted  up  and  furnished  bar,  under  charge  of 
an  officer  called  the  Host,  who  conducted  it  for  the  benefit  of  the 
lodge,  the  receipts,  as  we  have  seen,  being  a  part  of  the  revenue 
of  the  lodge,  kept  open,  however,  only  during  lodge  hours  ;  the 
seats  or  benches,  occupied  by  the  members,  being  supplied  with 
shelves  for  the  glasses,  mugs  and  pipes.  After  the  lodge  was 
opened,  the  first  step  in  business,  by  the  N.  G.,  was  to  direct  the 
members  to  make  their  calls  upon  the  Host  for  what  they  wanted 
to  drink,  and  to  pay  for  it ;  this  being  done,  and  the  supply  forth- 
coining,  the  N.  G.  would  rise  and  offer  a  sentiment,  to  which  all 
present  drank.  He  would  then  call  first  on  the  V.  G.  and  on 
each  officer  in  turn,  who  would  in  like  manner  offer  a  sentiment. 
After  the  various  sentiments  and  toasts  of  the  officers  had  been 
drank,  the  lodge  business  would  proceed  by  reading  the  minutes- 
of  the  last  meeting.  If  a  candidate  was  in  waiting  for  initiation, 
which  was  usually  the  case,  that  ceremony  was  dispatched, 
when  the  "N.  G.,  at  the  conclusion  of  it,  would  offer  the  usual 
toast,  to  wit :  "  The  health,  wealth  and  prosperity  of  our  newly 
initiated  brother,  with  the  honors  of  the  Order,"  which  were 
given  with  vim,  and  his  health  drank  with  corresponding  zest.  The 
members  would  now  renew  their  calls  upon  the  Host  during 
the  business  hours  of  the  lodge,  but  were  always  orderly,  none 
becoming  intoxicated,  or  in  any  manner  disturbing  the  harmony 
of  the  proceedings.  Strict  moderation  was  enjoined,  and  all  ex- 
cesses discouraged  and  punished.  The  N.  G.,  in  the  absence  of 
other  subjects  of  interest  before  the  lodge,  would  during  the 
evening  occasionally  call  upon  some  member  or  visitor  for  a  toast, 
sentiment  or  song,  which,  was  generally  responded  to.  When  the 


442 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


tiour  arrived  for  closing,  which  was  punctually  observed,  the 
•cabalistic  phrase  of  "  closed  in  Ancient  Form  "  was  recorded  on 
the  minutes  with  the  general  transactions  of  the  night. 

The  following  is  a  copy  of  the  minutes  of  one  of  those  meet- 
ings, taken  from  an  historical  sketch  prepared  by  Bro.  T.  N. 
Armstrong,  P.  G. 

PHILADELPHIA,  April  13th,  1824. 

At  a  stated  meeting  of  "Washington  Lodge,  No.  2, 1.  O.  O.  F., 
held   this   evening    in  '  Bread    Street,    the    following    passed : 
'-(videlicet)  Toast  by  N.  G.  Bartle,  "  The  President  of  the  United 
States."       Toast  by  the  same,  "  Odd  Fellowship  throughout  the 
Globe."     Minutes  of  the  preceding  meeting  read  and  adopted. 
Committee  of  inquiry  in  the  case  of  S.  Pryor  reported  favorably. 
Y.  G.    Weatherby  appointed   Bro.   Gravenstein   R.  Supporter, 
Bro.  Childs,  L.  Supporter.     A  ballot  was  taken,  and   S.  Pryor 
was  unanimously  elected.     The  dispensation  was  presented  to 
Lodge  No.  2,  with  a  hope  that  it  will  be  used  with  discretion, 
and  become  an  ornament  to  the  Order.     Mr.  Pryor  was  duly 
initiated   into  the  mysteries  of  the  honorable  Order,  and  paid 
two  dollars.     Bro.  Cross  sang,  "Far,  far  removed  from  noise  and 
•smoke."     Bro.  Craycroft  proposed  for  membership,  Win.  J.  Bur- 
niston,  turner,  Cresson  Alley,  near  Fifth  Street,  aged  32  years. 
Toast  by  K  G.  Bartle,  "  Unity."      1ST.  G.  Bartle  proposed   A. 
McDowell   as  a  candidate.     Song  by  D.  G.  M.   Small,  "  Ben 
Bob  Stay."      Toast  by  V.  G.  Weatherby,  "Union  among  Odd 
Fellows  throughout  the  Globe."     IS".  G.   Bartle  suggested  the 
propriety  of  having   a   ball   on  Monday  evening ;     and  upon 
taking  the  yeas  and  nays,  the  yeas  had  a  majority.     A  committee 
-consisting  of   Brothers  Richardson,  Cross,  Gravenstein,  Pryor 
and  Parry  were  appointed  to  make  arrangements.     The  Investi- 
gating Committee  reported  favorably  on  S.  Whittle  ;  when  upon 
ballotting  he  was  duly  elected  and  initiated  into  the  mysteries  of 
the  Order,  and  paid  $1.50.     K  G.  Bartle  and  Bros.  Thackera,  Gra- 
venstein, Childs,  Cross,  Weatherby,  Craycroffc  Parry  and  Gilmore 
paid  each  6i  cents.  Toast  by  K  G.  Bartle, "The  health,  wealth  and 
prosperity  of  the  Grand  Lodge,"  (with  the  honors  of  the  Order). 
Toast  by  D.  G.  M.  Small,  "  May  you  prosper  and  never  know 
want."     Toast  by  IS".  G.  Bartle,  "  Health,  wealth  and  prosperity 
to  our  newly  initiated   brothers,  may  they  live  long  and  die 
happy,"  (with  the  honors  of  the  Order).     Resolved:  That  the 
books  brought  this  evening  by  P.  G.  Richardson,  be  accepted 
and  the  bill  paid.     Bro.  Cross  sang,  "  Lango  Lee."     Toast  by 
P.  G.  Day,  "May  you  meet  more  numerously  and  never  less 
respectably."     N.  G   Bartle  proposed  G.  Cornwell  as  a  candi- 
date, residence  High  Street,  above  Eleventh.     Bros.  Parry  and 
"Gilmore  were  appointed  a  committee  of  inquiry.     Amount  col- 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  443 

lected  $5.18.  Amount  collected  from  bar,  $2.25.  Total,  $7.43. 
IS".  G.  Bartle  sang  "  Auld  Lang  Syne.  "  Toast  by  Y.  G. 
Weatherby,  "  Odd  Fellows,  may  they  ever  enjoy  an  independent 
spirit."  After  which  the  lodge  was  closed  in  Ancient  Form. 

J.  AIKEN,  JR.,  Sec.  pro  tern. 

Wayne  Lodge,  No.  3,  was  chartered  December  16th,  1824, 
upon  the  petition  of  R.  H.  Bartle,  M.  G.  Carlin,  Samuel  Pryor, 
Samuel  Whittle,  Jesse  Childs  and  William  Fowler.  It  was  in- 
stituted on  the  fifth  anniversary  of  the  Order,  Dec.  26th,  1824. 
From  the  experience  and  peculiar  adaptation  of  Bro.  Bartle  as 
a  presiding  officer,  it  may  be  taken  for  granted  that  No.  3  fol- 
lowed in  the  footsteps  of  Nos.  1  and  2.  The  minutes  of  No.  2 
record  the  fact,  that  social  visitations  from  sister  lodges  were  no 
uncommon  thing,  and,  whilst  they  had  abandoned  recording  the 
convivial  transactions,  the  payment  of  a  grocery  bill,  and  the 
postponement  of  the  hour  of  adjournment,  are  items  suggestive 
of  the  peculiar  business  indulged  in  on  such  occasions.  The 
lodge  for  some  reason  was  obliged  to  surrender  its  charter,  Oct. 
-8th,  1827.  The  Order  was  now  moving  slowly,  the  lodges  gen- 
erally doing  but  little  business.  With  the  exception  of  Lodge 
No.  4,  which  was  located  in  the  upper  part  of  the  county,  no  new 
lodge  was  chartered  for  over  three  years.  On  September  29th, 
1828,  the  charter  of  Wayne  Lodge,  No.  3,  was  restored.  It  was 
immediately  reinstated,  and  resumed  its  work,  together  with  the 
six  new  lodges  which  had  been  chartered  during  the  year.  Re- 
juvenated by  a  new  impetus,  it  at  once  moved  off  prosperously, 
and  has  since  never  flagged,  having  upon  its  roll,  March  1st, 
1875,  232  members,  and  $1617.44  in  its  treasury. 

Morning  Star  Lodge,  No.  4,  situated  in  Kensington,  near 
Philadelphia,  was  instituted  March  13th,  1826,  under  a  charter 
from  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  granted  Feb.  13th,  1826. 
When  instituted,  Kensington  was  in  the  county  of  Philadelphia, 
north  of  the  city  line,  and  the  location  was  known  as  the  suburbs 
of  the  city.  The  G.  Sec.  Samuel  Pryor,  in  a  letter  to  the  G. 
Sire,  dated  Nov.  22d,  1826,  as  a  reason  for  an  early  supply  of 
degree  books,  remarked  that  this  lodge  was  located  a  consider- 
able distance  from  the  city.  The  first  place  of  meeting  provided 
for  this  lodge  was  on  the  Frankford  Road,  opposite  to  Bedford 
Street,  the  name  of  which  had  been  changed  to  Wildey  Street. 
The  place  selected  was  over  a  tavern  kept  by  one  Taylor  Brandt. 


444  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

For  a  short  time,  the  practice  of  having  drinks  ordered  up  to  the 
lodge  was  indulged,  after  lodge  hours,  and  also  of  enjoying 
song,  toast,  and  sentiment,  after  the  English  style.  We  are  in- 
debted to  Bro.  John  Devlin,  one  of  the  most  active  members  of 
the  Order,  now  a  member  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  26,  and 
of  Siloam  Encampment,  No.  17,  boarding  at  this  house  when  the 
lodge  was  instituted,  for  some  interesting  and  rather  amusing  in- 
cidents connected  with  Odd  Fellowship  of  that  day.  The  forma- 
tion of  the  fourth  Lodge  was  the  first  movement  to  extend  the 
Order  beyond  the  city.  It  became  the  pioneer  lodge  in  build- 
ing an  Odd  Fellows  Hall.  The  magnitude  of  the  undertaking  in- 
volved the  lodge,  and  although  its  experience  was  depressing  and 
embarrassing,  it  succeeded  in  erecting,  and  occupying  for  a  time, 
a  substantial,  handsome  and  imposing  edifice  on  Richmond  Street, 
This  building  was  formally  dedicated  to  the  purposes  of  the 
Order  in  May,  1831.  Bro.  Howell  Hopkins,  P.  G.  Sire,  delivered 
the  dedicatory  address,  in  his  usual  happy  and  eloquent  style. 

The  G.  Lodge  of  the  State  undertook  to  assist  the  lodge  in. 
this  indiscreet  enterprise,  by  creating  a  loan  for  the  aid  of  the 
hall  debt,  but  the  scheme  failed,  and  the  building  was  sold  by  the 
creditors  on  Nov.  20th,  1833.  It  was  purchased  at  Sheriff's  sale 
for  $4300,  by  Bro.  H.  Hopkins,  P.  G.  Sire.  Bro.  Hopkins 
offered  the  property  to  the  G.  Lodge  at  its  cost,  which  was  quite  a 
low  figure.  Efforts  were  again  made  by  the  G.  Lodge  to  inter- 
pose, but  without  success.  This  building  remained  the  property 
of  Bro.  Hopkins  until  his  death ;  it  was  then  sold  by  his  legal 
representatives,  and  was  purchased  by  Kensington  Lodge,  No. 
211,  of  the  Masonic  Order,  by  which  it  was  altered  at  a  heavy 
expense,  and  adapted  to  their  convenience  and  taste.  It  is  now 
one  of  the  handsomest  Masonic  Temples  in  the  State  outside  of 
the  city  of  Philadelphia.  Thus  ended  the  premature  attempt  of 
this  lodge  to  erect  a  hall  for  its  accommodation,  a  result  which 
reasonable  calculation  might  have  justly  predicted.  Morning 
Star  Lodge,  No.  4,  was  staggered  by  this  serious  experience ; 
nevertheless  it  struggled  through  the  darkest  days  of  the  Order,, 
until  August  17th,  1840,  when  it  succumbed  to  the  necessities  of 
its  position,  and  surrendered  its  charter.  Its  suspension  of  work 
was  of  comparatively  short  duration.  On  March  22d,  1841,  the 
charter  was  restored  upon  a  constitutional  application,  and  the 
lodge  was  reinstated,  March  26th,  1841,  and  is  now  in  a  highly 


ODD   FELLOWSHIP   IN    PENNSYLVANIA. 


445 


prosperous  condition.  Such  was  the  ordeal  through  which  most 
of  the  pioneer  lodges  of  the  State  had  to  pass.  The  struggle  and 
sacrifices  incident  to  such  fearful  experiences,  to  enable  them  to 
maintain  their  existence,  displayed  a  heroism  and  zeal  worthy  of 
the  great  cause  which  animated  them.  This  lodge  has  now  266 
members,  and  $6868.56  in  the  treasury. 

Franklin  Lodge,  No.  5,  was  applied  for  by  Lawrence  O'Con- 
nor, Ezra  T.  Garrett,  Benjamin  Bates,  Jr.,  Stephen  Child,  James 
L.  Harris,  John  Brook,  and  William  Stratton,  and  was  chartered 
January  14th,  1828.  It  was  instituted  soon  thereafter,  nearly 
two  years  having  elapsed  since  the  charter  was  granted  for  No.  4. 
During  this  interval  a  great  change  had  taken  place.  The  bar 
and  all  convivial  practices  had  been  formally  abolished,  and  the 
Independent  Order  of  Odd  Fellows  had  been  thoroughly  Ameri- 
canized. Franklin  Lodge,  No.  5,  was  the  first  new  lodge  opened, 
under  the  auspicious  promise,  and  nobly  did  the  lodge  in  its 
career  of  life  respond  to  the  just  expectation  foreshadowed  by  the 
new  era  which  had  been  entered  upon.  The  early  minutes  of 
the  lodge  have  been  lost,  a  misfortune  which  appears  to  have 
been  frequent  in  the  Order.  Diligent  search  has  been  made 
for  the  book,  but  without  success.  This  misfortune  may  deprive 
us  of  some  incidents  connected  with  the  reformed  order  of  lodge 
work,  and  of  its  manner  of  introduction.  We  are  not  in  doubt, 
however,  of  the  important  fact  that  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  5,  was 
a  perfect,  success,  nobly  fulfilling  its  mission  as  a  prosperous  and 
zealous  subordinate  lodge  under  the  jurisdiction  of  the  G.  Lodge 
of  Pennsylvania.  It  now  numbers  255  members,  with  a  fund  of 
.$12,076.50. 

General  Marion  Lodge,  No.  6,  was  authorized  by  the  G. 
Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  upon  the  application  of  John  Cross, 
James  McMullin,  J.  H.  Wilson,  Isaiah  Quig,  Win.  Graham, 
Lewis  Huntsman,  Chalkley  Baker,  and  Peter  Frank,  on  March  10, 
1828,  upon  the  condition  that  it  should  be  held  in  Kensington, 
or  in  the  city.  The  lodge  was  instituted  in  the  hall  at  Seventh 
and  Chestnut  Streets,  and  has  continued  to  meet  in  the  city  since, 
with  a  reasonable  success.  It  has  had  the  good  fortune  to  possess 
among  its  members  enough  active  and  attentive  material  to 
maintain  its  organization  in  proper  health,  and  to  always  meet 
its  just  obligations  to  its  membership.  It  has  now  126  members, 
with  a  fund  of  $1534.59. 


446  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Hermann  Lodge,  No.  7,  was  instituted  upon  the  petition  of 
Henry  Heiser,  John  B.  Schambaugh,  John  Diddlebouch,  Israel 
Gardey,  Charles  H.  Leigh,  Michael  Freid,  Abraham  Kniauros  and 
Lewis  Hnrilson,  presented  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  June  9th,  1828, 
for  a  charter  for  a  lodge  to  be  located  in  Kensington,  to  work  in 
the  German  language,  to  be  called  Herman  Lodge,  No.  7.  The 
charter  was  granted  July  14th,  1828.  The  lodge  was  instituted 
July  28th,  1828.  This  was  the  second  German  lodge  chartered 
in  the  United  States ;  William  Tell  Lodge,  No.  4,  at  Baltimore, 
Maryland,  having  been  chartered  Jan'y  16th,  1827.  By 
the  authority  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.,  the  G.  L.  of 
Pennsylvania  appointed  a  committee  to  have  the  work  trans- 
lated into  the  German  language.  This  was  done,  and  was  the 
first  translation  of  the  ritual  into  a  foreign  language.  It  after- 
wards become  the  property  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  The 
uninterrupted  harmony  and  prosperity  of  the  German  lodges, 
up  to  the  present  time,  confirms  the  wisdom  of  this  action  of  the 
G.  Lodge.  Associations  for  the  encouragement  of  provident 
foresight  and  proper  protection  of  their  families  in  case  of  sick- 
ness or  misfortune,  seem  to  be  in  sympathy  with  the  German 
character.  The  effort  of  the  Germans  appears  very  generally  to 
be  put  forth  in  securing  a  home  and  refuge  for  their  sick  and 
suffering.  The  German  lodges  are  among  the  most  successful 
in  the  Order  throughout  the  general  jurisdiction.  This  lodge 
has  now  371  members  and  $6225.69  in  its  treasury. 

Rising  Sun  Lodge,  No.  8,  was  chartered  July  14th,  1828r 
upon  the  petition  of  Joseph  Burroughs,  Robert  Tomlinson, 
Thomas  Pendlebury,  James  W.  Charlton,  and  others.  It  was 
instituted  July  28th,  1828.  It  was  designed  at  first  to  be  located  in 
Rising  Sun  Tillage,  about  three  miles  from  the  city  and  two  miles 
from  Frankford,  but,  from  some  cause  not  now  known,  it  was 
instituted  at  the  General  Pike  Hotel  in  Frankford,  where  it  is  still 
located,  being  a  part  of  the  23d  ward  of  the  city.  The  members 
generally  were  Englishmen,  engaged  in  the  various  manufactures 
located  in  the  neighborhood,  but  gradually  citizens  joined  it 
from  all  nationalities,  and  its  career  began  to  brighten.  It  has 
had  for  many  years  good  fortune,  and  fulfilled  its  mission  suc- 
cessfully. Of  late  years,  however,  it  has  been  sustained  chiefly 
by  the  most  persistent  efforts  of  its  members.  An  appeal  to  the 
other  lodges  in  the  State  for  assistance,  met  with  a  prompt  and 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  447 

liberal  response.  The  members  are  comparatively  few  in  num- 
bers and  advanced  in  years,  affording  an  example  which  should 
be  a  timely  warning,  for  a  proper  adjustment  by  lodges  of  their 
scale  of  dues  and  benefits.  The  membership  numbers  57,  and 
the  funds  amount  to  $665.78. 

Mechanics'  Lodge,  No.  9,  was  located  in  the  city  of  Pitts- 
burgh. The  charter  was  granted  December  29th,  1828,  upon 
the  petition  of  James  "Wright,  P.  G.  of  Washington  Lodge,  No. 
1,  of  Baltimore;  Wm.  Creacey  and  Joseph  Charles  of  Washington 
Lodge,  No.  2,  Philadelphia ;  James  Paul  and  John  Byers,  of 
Morning  Star  Lodge,  No.  4,  of  Philadelphia.  The  name  of 
Wm.  Creacey  was  stricken  from  the  petition.  The  lodge  wa& 
instituted  January  6th,  1829,  by  Thomas  Small,  P.  G.  M.,  as  a 
special  deputy.  This  was  the  first  lodge  instituted  in  Pennsyl- 
vania outside  the  city  and  county  of  Philadelphia,  and  the  first 
Odd  Fellows'  lodge  instituted  west  of  the  Alleghany  Mountains^ 
In  view  of  this  important  fact,  the  G.  Lodge  adopted  proper 
legislation  to  guard  and  protect  it,  as  a  pioneer  lodge  in  a  dis- 
tant county,  and  to  maintain  a  proper  supervision  over  its  ope- 
rations. Accordingly  the  following  proceeding  was  had :  "Re- 
solved :  That  the  G.  Master  be  authorized  to  appoint  a  D.  G. 
M.  to  reside  in  Pittsburgh,  who  shall  hold  his  office  during  the 
remainder  of  the  term  of  service  of  the  present  G.  M.,  and  may 
again  be  appointed  by  his  successor,  subject  always  to  removal, 
by  the  G.  Lodge.  His  duty  shall  be  to  see  that  the  ancient 
rules  and  customs  of  the  Order  are  adhered  to,  and  that  the  con- 
stitution, charges,  regulations  and  laws  of  the  G.  Lodge  be 
obeyed.  He  shall  transmit  to  the  G.  Secretary  quarterly  reports 
of  the  lodge,  together  with  the  percentage  of  their  income,  and 
all  communications  to  the  lodge  shall  be  made  through  him.. 
He  shall  from  time  to  time  inform  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  situa- 
tion and  progress  of  the  lodges  under  his  charge.  He  shall  be 
permitted  to  wear* the  same  regalia  as  is  worn  by  the  elected 
D.  G.  M.,  and  shall  be  treated  with  the  same  respect  as  if  he 
were  present." 

In  the  month  of  May,  1829,  soon  after  the  organization  of  this 
lodge,  the  house  in  which  it  was  located  took  fire  and  burned 
down,  the  lodge  losing  severely  in  fixtures,  regalia  and  lodge 
paraphernalia.  The  G.  Lodge  regarding  the  loss  as  a  severe  ca- 
lamity to  the  whole  Order,  involving,  as  it  did,  the  success  of  the- 


-448  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

movement  in  diffusing  the  system  westward,  appointed  a  com- 
mittee to  lay  the  subject  of  assistance  to  the  lodge  before  the 
Order  in  the  city  and  county  of  Philadelphia.  This  committee 
subsequently  reported  that  the  following  lodges  had  contributed 
the  several  sums  affixed  to  their  respective  names,  to  wit :  Penn- 
sylvania Lodge,  No.  1,  $15.00  ;  Washington  Lodge,  No.  2,  $15.00 ; 
Morning  Star  Lodge,  No.  4,  $5.00 ;  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  5,  $10.00 ; 
Gen.  Marion  Lodge,  No.  6,  $5.00 ;  Herman  Lodge,  No.  7,  $5.00 ; 
Kensington  Lodge,  No.  11,  $5.00  ;  Jefferson  Lodge,  No.  12,  $5.00  ; 
Philadelphia  Lodge,  No.  13,  $5.00.  The  contribution,  consider- 
ing the  magnitude  of  the  loss,  was  light ;  but  the  Order,  at  the 
time,  was,  comparatively  speaking,  poor  and  feeble  in  resources, 
each  lodge  being  actively  engaged  in  providing  for  its  own  imme- 
diate necessities,  and  at  times  struggling  for  its  own  existence. 
Nevertheless,  the  amount  was  gratefully  received  and  wisely 
applied.  This  act  of  fraternal  kindness  soon  brought  the  Order 
in  Pittsburgh  into  favorable  notice  and  made  it  popular.  With 
the  encouragement  thus  received,  it  soon  re-established  its  lodge, 
and  began  to  prosper. 

The  Order  has  continued  to  prosper  in  Alleghany  County, 
being  the  second  county,  as  Pittsburgh  is  the  second  city,  in  the 
State,  in  which  the  Order  was  established,  maintaining  the  same 
relative  position  in  Odd  Fellowship,  ranking  next  to  Philadelphia 
in  the  number  of  lodges,  members  and  wealth.  This  was  an 
important  point  at  which  to  repair  the  loss  sustained,  as  well  as 
to  strengthen  the  position.  At  that  day  the  tide  of  emigration 
was  active,  and  mainly  directed  westward,  through  this  growing 
manufacturing  city.  Long  before  the  advent  of  railroads,  this  city 
was  the  great  highway  to  the  west.  There  was  no  place  on  the 
American  continent  better  adapted  for  facilitating  the  diffusion 
of  our  Order,  and  none,  it  is  believed,  which  contributed  more  in 
that  direction  than  Pittsburgh.  It  was  the  central  point  of  trav- 
ellers and  emigrants  going  west  and  returning  east.  The  lodge 
wisely  instituted  at  this  point,  rapidly  recovered  from  its  severe 
trial  and  increased  its  numbers.  Many  instances  are  related  of 
timely  assistance  rendered  to  weary  and  afflicted  brethren  and 
their  families  who  were  seeking  new  homes  in  the  west,  as  well 
as  on  their  return  in  disappointment  and  distress.  Certain  it  is 
that  this  was  the  germ  of  our  present  magnificent  western  juris- 
dictions. The  spirit  of  emigration  to  the  west,  in  those  days,  was 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  449 

epidemic ;  it  was  universal,  it  was  the  common  sentiment.  Tho 
number  who  had  sought  homes  in  that  country  had  described  it 
in  letters  to  their  friends  as  a  paradise.  Many,  however,  as  a 
matter  of  course,  returned  sadly  disappointed.  The  discovery 
made  was,  that  labor  and  toil  are  not  the  less  the  heritage  of  the 
race,  westward  than  eastward,  and  that  the  bread  of  life  is  the 
reward  of  the  sweat  of  the  brow  only. 

Yet  the  course  of  this  immense  procession  was  through  Pitts- 
burgh generally,  and  thousands  of  Odd  Fellows  were  added  to 
the  Order  through  the  instrumentality,  directly  or  indirectly,  of 
Lodge  No.  9  of  that  city.  JSTo.  9,  in  addition  to  its  individual 
loss  arising  out  of  the  fire  which  destroyed  its  lodge-room  and 
furniture  in  May  1829,  was  a  severe  sufferer  by  the  great  fire 
which  laid  waste  a  large  portion  of  the  city  of  Pittsburgh  in  the 
summer  of  1845.  On  that  occasion,  by  authority  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  the  State,  it  made  an  appeal  to  the  sister  lodges  in  the 
United  States.  This  appeal  was  promptly  and  generously  re- 
sponded to  by  a  contribution  of  $7601.46,  being  an  excess  over 
the  loss  sustained  of  $1358.44.  The  surplus  was  invested  for 
the  relief  of  the  widows  and  orphans  of  Odd  Fellows  in  the  city. 
We  are  happy  to  say  that  Lodge  No.  9  continues  to  be  a  pros- 
perous lodge,  notwithstanding  its  several  trying  ordeals.  This  is 
the  only  lodge  in  Pittsburgh  which  belongs  to  the  first  decade  of 
the  Order. 

This  lodge  being  originated  by  members  of  the  English  type 
of  social  Odd  Fellows,  which  imposed  but  few  restraints  upon  the 
membership,  did  not  meekly  acquiesce  in  the  authority  claimed 
by  the  D.  G.  M.  appointed  to  supervise  them,  who  was  not  re- 
ceived very  cordially  by  it.  This  feeling  did  not  improve  with 
the  increase  of  the  lodge.  The  opposition  did  not  appear  at  first 
to  be  so  much  against  the  man  appointed  by  the  G.  Master,  as 
against  the  officer.  The  great  difficulty  in  giving  general  satis- 
faction induced  G.  M.  Joseph  Brown  to  allow  the  P.  G.'s  of  the 
district  to  select  the  officer,  to  be  recommended  to  him  for  ap- 
pointment. This  course  on  the  part  of  the  G.  Master  was  con- 
ciliatory and  wise.  It  had  the  effect  designed  of  superinducing 
a  corresponding  spirit.  It  did  not,  however,  render  the  office  of 
District  Deputy  G.  M.  a  desirable  one.  The  regulation,  how- 
ever, was  a  good  one  under  the  circumstances,  and  at  the  time 
it  was  introduced  was  a  politic  device.  It  was  continued  until 
29 


450  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

1847,  when  G.  M.  Joseph  S.  Sanger,  for  some  satisfactory  reason,, 
refused  to  appoint  the  P.  G.  selected,  and  exercised  his  constitu- 
tional prerogative  independently.  He  appointed  a  brother 
named  W.  C.  Meredith,  D.  D.  G.  Master  for  the  Pittsburgh 
District.  The  lodges,  then  numbering  six  in  the  district,  re- 
fused to  receive  or  recognize  him  as  D.  D.  G.  M.  The  appoint- 
ment was  reported  to  the  G.  Lodge,  and  was  approved  by  that 
body.  The  refusal  of  the  district  to  receive  the  District  Deputy 
G.  M.  was  also  reported  to  the  G.  Lodge,  which  had  no  alterna- 
tive but  to  enforce  obedience  to  the  law.  Charges  were  preferred 
against  the  offending  lodges,  which  were  referred  to  a  committee, 
by  which  they  were  investigated  and  sustained.  The  result  was 
the  forfeiture  of  the  charters  of  Nos.  9,  24,  45,  64,  182,  and  241, 
on  Oct.  18th,  1847. 

These  lodges  remained  out  of  the  Order  for  the  official  term 
of  the  D.  D.  G.  M.  whom  they  had  rejected.  At  the  expiration 
of  his  official  term,  they  petitioned  the  G.  Lodge  for  reinstate- 
ment. The  lodges  offending  had  not  surrendered  their  respective 
charters  and  effects.  The  G.  Lodge,  when  informed  of  this  fact, 
on  the  25th  of  August,  1848,  authorized  D.  D.  G.  M.  Geo.  R. 
McFarlane,  of  Blair  county,  to  demand  and  receive  in  its  behalf,, 
from  said  lodges,  their  respective  charters  and  property  required 
by  the  laws.  The  several  lodges  promptly  complied  with  this 
requisition,  when  an  immediate  restoration  of  the  charters  of  all 
the  lodges  to  their  former  standing  was  authorized  by  the  G. 
Lodge,  on  the  18th  day  of  October,  1848.  Their  funds  and  all 
other  property  surrendered,  were  also  restored.  It  is  due  to  the 
truth  of  history  and  to  the  preservation  of  important  facts,  that 
the  circumstances  and  agencies  through  which  this  happy  ad- 
justment of  an  unfortunate  conflict  between  the  G.  Lodge  and 
this  important  subordinate  district  was  effected,  should  be  set 
forth.  In  justice  to  the  lodges,  the  following  extracts  have  been 
taken  from  D.  D.  G.  M.  McFarlane's  report  to  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Pennsylvania  on  the  subject,  Yol.  2,  page  252,  Journal  G.  L. 
of  Pa. 

The  D.  D.  G.  M.  remarks  that,  "  The  charters  and  property 
declared  forfeited  a  year  since,  were  never  actually  or  legally 
demanded,  until  demanded  by  me,  and  then  they  were  promptly 
surrendered.  Bro.  Meredith,  D.  D.  G.  M.,  attempted  to  carry  off 
the  charter  of  Iron  City  Lodge  by  force,  and  did  carry  away 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    PENNSYLVANIA. 

their  charge  books.  The  charters  and  property  of  the  other 
lodges  he  demanded  by  letter,  which,  as  a  matter  of  course,  he 
did  not  receive.  A  demand  made  in  the  name  of  the  G.  Lodge 
for  these  charters  and  properties,  by  any  Odd  Fellow  not  per- 
sonally objectionable,  would  have  been  complied  with  at  any 
time  since  the  suspension.  I  have  every  reason  to  believe  that 
the  work  of  the  Order  has  been  faithfully  adhered  to  during  the 
suspension,  and  the  brethren  have  been  careful  to  avoid  giving 
additional  cause  of  offence  to  the  G.  Lodge ;  that  the  members 
of  the  suspended  lodges,  as  a  body,  are  men  to  whose  keep- 
ing the  interests  and  the  honor  of  the  Order  may  be  safely 
confided,  notwithstanding  their  past  delinquency,  the  result 
rather  of  impulse  and  thoughtlessness  than  of  deliberation  or 
mature  judgment.  I  have  met  them  all,  with  the  exception  of 
Gomer  Lodge,  No.  64,  at  their  lodge  rooms;  while  my  inter- 
course with  the  members  of  No.  64,  personally,  has  satisfied  me 
that  they  are  no  exception  to  the  general  rule.  I  can  confi- 
dently say,  that  nowhere  have  I  sat  in  better  conducted  lodges, 
or  met  with  Odd  Fellows  with  whom  I  could  more  readily  fra- 
ternize ;  nowhere  have  I  witnessed  a  more  elevated  attachment 
to  the  Order,  a  greater  interest  in  its  prosperity,  or  a  more 
ardent  desire  to  participate  in  its  privileges  and  benefits.. 
Most  sincerely  do  I  wish  that  you,  my  brethren,  could  have  been 
present  at  the  surrender  of  the  charters  and  final  closing  of  the 
lodge  rooms  in  Pittsburgh  and  Alleghany  City;  could  have 
witnessed,  as  I  did,  the  sincere  regret,  the  unaffected  sorrow,  the 
manly  grief  with  which  they  saw  the  portals  of  the  temple 
where  they  had  been  used  to  worship  together  at  the  shrine  of 
Friendship,  Love  and  Truth,  closed  upon  them,  for  a  brief,  yet 
uncertain  period.  You  would  have  felt,  as  I  feel,  ardently  desirous 
for  a  re-opening  of  their  hall,  and  a  speedy  restoration  of  our 
erring  brethren  to  a  full  and  free  participation  in  the  privileges 
of  our  beloved  Order." 

After  the  reading  and  adoption  of  this  report,  the  petition 
asking  for  a  restoration  of  the  charters  was  referred  to  a  special 
committee.  The  committee  was  judiciously  selected,  and  was 
composed  of  some  of  the  best  members  of  the  Grand  Body. 
Bro.  A.  B.  Grosh  was  the  chairman.  As  an  evidence  of  the 
spirit  of  conciliation  which  animated  the  committee,  the  follow- 
ing closing  paragraph  of  their  report  is  annexed.  After  rebuking 


452 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


the  request  to  have  the  honors  of  office,  claimed  to  have  been 
obtained  by  the  service  of  officers  during  their  suspension,  which 
they  ignore  out  and  out,  the  committee  remark,  "  All  else  is  freely 
forgiven,  cheerfully  granted,  joyously  concurred  in.  Let  the  past 
be  but  as  a  troubled  dream,  and  mother  and  daughters  unitedly 
awakening  from  the  darkness  of  this  long  night  of  sorrow  and 
sadness,  arise  and  put  on  their  beautiful  garments,  and  shine 
forth  once  more  in  the  glorious  light  of  Odd  Fellowship,  mutu- 
ally rejoicing  in  each  other's  affection  and  prosperity." 

As  a  remarkable  and  highly  commendable  incident  of  this 
Pittsburgh  experience,  the  fact  is  worthy  of  publicity,  that  the 
lodges  continued  their  work  uninterruptedly,  and  all  applications 
to  them  for  relief  were  promptly  and  liberally  met.  They  never 
availed  of  their  difficulties  to  excuse  themselves  when  a  needy 
and  deserving  brother  asked  for  relief.  This  lodge,  No.  9,  con- 
tinued, after  its  restoration,  to  prosper,  until  1860,  when  it  sur- 
rendered its  charter.  Afterwards,  in  1862,  a  proper  application 
was  made  for  a  restoration  of  charter,  which  was  granted,  and 
the  lodge  is  now  highly  prosperous.  Number  of  members,  92. 
Funds,  $3331.23. 

Philomath ean  Lodge,  No.  10,  was  chartered  December  29th, 
1828,  upon  the  petition  of  Charles  Eowand,  "W.  M.  Tonner, 
Henry  Birchall,  James  Giiford,  Win.  Witworth,  Robinson  Law- 
son,  Wm.  Batton,  John  Hart,  and  Ebenezer  Forsyth.  The 
name  of  W.  M.  Tonner  was  stricken  off  before  the  grant  was 
made.  The  lodge  was  instituted  Feb'y  14th,  1829,  by  G.  M. 
Isaac  Brown  and  P.  G.  M.  Thomas  Small,  in  Germantown,  in 
the  county  of  Philadelphia,  about  six  miles  from  the  city,  now 
the  22d  ward.  No.  10  has  been  one  of  the  most  successful  lodges 
in  Pennsylvania,  never  failing  for  a  moment  in  its  career  since 
its  organization,  in  the  discharge  of  its  obligations  to  its  mem- 
bers, or  in  its  duty  to  the  Order.  It  has  not  been  more  true 
and  faithful  to  its  practical  illustration  of  the  principles  of  Odd 
Fellowship,  than  it  has  been  a  just  source  of  pride  and  congratu- 
lation to  the  membership  for  its  prosperity  aud  decided  success 
as  an  Odd  Fellows'  lodge.  This  lodge  owns  a  large  and  commo- 
dious hall,  and  has  also  an  invested  fund  of  $17,530.48.  Its 
membership  numbers  573.  It  was  the  first  lodge  which  carried 
through,  without  embarrassment,  its  undertaking  to  build  an  Odd 
Fellows'  Hall  for  its  exclusive  occupancy. 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP    IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  453 

Kensington  Lodge,  No.  11,  was  located  in  Kensington  Hall, 
with  Nos.  4  and  7,  and  its  charter  bears  date  February  25th, 
1829.  The  names  of  the  petitioners  do  not  appear  in  the  minutes 
of  the  G.  Lodge.  There  is  some  discrepancy  between  the  minutes 
and  the  charter  itself.  The  date  of  the  charter  ought  to  be 
satisfactory  evidence  of  the  time  it  was  issued,  but  the  proceedings 
of  the  G.  Lodge  of  February  23d  show  otherwise.  The  record 
in  the  G.  Secretary's  office  fixes  Feb.  27th,  1829,  as  the  time  it 
was  instituted.  The  original  minutes  book  has  been  lost,  it  is 
therefore  impossible  to  harmonize  these  dates.  It  is,  however, 
unimportant,  as  the  dates  are  sufficiently  close  to  avoid  any  con- 
flict of  material  character.  The  career  of  the  lodge  has  been 
uninterruptedly  prosperous  and  fortunate.  It  has  always 
promptly  met  its  engagements  as  a  lodge,  has  been  financially 
strong  and  able,  and  has  with  a  liberal  and  magnanimous  spirit 
always  heard  the  appeals  made  to  its  bounty.  And  what  perhaps 
is  the  great  secret  of  its  success,  it  has  been  managed  well  by 
brothers  who  have  watched  its  welfare  and  studied  its  interests. 
It  has  a  capital  fund  of  $10,047.39,  and  its  membership  reaches 
380. 

Jefferson  Lodge,  No.  12,  is  located  in  the  Kensington  District 
with  Nos.  4,  7,  and  11,  and  was  chartered  February  23d, 
1829.  The  exact  date  of  its  institution  does  not  appear  on  the 
minutes,  nor  can  it  be  precisely  ascertained.  It  was,  however, 
about  the  time  it  was  chartered.  The  lodge  had  a  fortunate 
career  for  several  years.  It  had  to  encounter  the  anti-Masonic 
crusade  against  secret  societies,  which  reached  its  height  in 
Pennsylvania  about  this  time,  as  well  as  the  financial  crisis  of 
1837,  which  oppressed  beneficial  societies  as  well  as  individuals, 
carrying  general  bankruptcy  in  its  train.  No.  12  was  compelled 
to  succumb  to  this  storm,  and  surrendered  its  charter.  After 
several  years  of  suspension,  the  charter  was  restored  April  20th, 
1846.  The  lodge  was  re-instituted  April  26th,  1846,  on  the  27th 
anniversary  of  the  Order  in  the  United  States.  It  has  since 
continued  in  successful  operation.  Its  treasury  amounts  to 
$5457.23 ;  membership,  312. 

Philadelphia  Lodge,  No.  13,  was  chartered  upon  the  petition 
of  Anson  Jones,  B.  Buckman,  George  "W.  Twibill,  Charles  Oak- 
ford,  Wm.  S.  Hathaway,  J.  E.  Erwin,  Aaron  Oakfbrd,  Kobert 
Allen,  John  Simmons,  "William  L.  Norton,  Anthony  Seybert, 


454  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Samuel  Brick,  A.  B.  Lockwood,  Geo.  Jeffries,  James  Bolland,  C. 
Corral,  Win.  Sullivan,  A.  Gaskill,  Eobert  Scott,  Wm.  E.  Tatum, 
Nathaniel  W .  Miller,  John  Brooks,  Stephen  H.  Simmons,  George 
W.  Burgess,  John  Faeira,  J.  E.  James,  Thomas  Pettit,  James  Rei- 
meck,  Geo.  Neilson,  William  Torrance  and  Rudolph  H.  Bartle, 
P.  G.  M.,  all  members  of  Washington  Lodge,  3STo.  2.  These 
names  have  been  obtained  from  the  original  withdrawal  cards, 
which  have  been  preserved  in  a  scrap-book.  The  lodge  was  lo- 
cated at  Seventh  and  Chestnut  Streets,  and  was  instituted  March 
28th,  1829.  It  has  been  a  success  from  the  beginning.  Its  records 
iind  the  preservation  of  its  official  papers  have  been  most  com- 
pletely cared  for,  which  example  is  worthy  of  imitation.  The 
lodge  has  generously  placed  at  the  disposal  of  the  historiographer, 
through  its  honored  Secretary,  P.  G.  P.  Geo.  Sligo,  all  of  its 
archives,  including  the  31  cards  of  the  original  applicants.  By 
special  resolution  of  the  lodge,  some  valuable  manuscripts  have 
also  been  placed  in  our  possession,  for  which  we  tender  grateful 
acknowledgments. 

Wildey  Lodge,  No.  14,  was  chartered  June  29th,  1829,  upon 
the  petition  of  a  number  of  members  of  Rising  Sun  Lodge, 
No.  8,  to  be  located  at  Frankford,  a  village  then  in  the  county  of 
Philadelphia,  containing  about  1500  inhabitants.  The  names  of 
the  petitioners  do  not  appear  in  the  G.  Lodge  journal.  It  was 
instituted  July  2d,  1829,  by  P.  G.  Masters  Small  and  Pry  or,  and 
has  prospered  ever  since.  This  lodge  testified  its  high  sense  of 
appreciation  and  gratitude  to  the  founder  of  Odd  Fellowship  in 
the  United  States,  by  assuming  his  name,  and  was  the  first  "  Wil- 
dey "  Lodge  in  the  United  States.  It  was  chartered  about  the 
time  Bro.  Wildey,  then  G.  Sire,  visited  Philadelphia,  for  the  pur- 
pose of  organizing  the  G.  Encampment  of  Pennsylvania,  which 
was  accomplished  on  June  17th,  1829.  On  this  occasion  Bro. 
Wildey  was  entertained  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pa.  by  a  public 
dinner.  Many  of  the  first  members  being  Catholics,  Wildey 
Lodge  did  not  work  with  harmony.  Finally,  the  Catholic  Church, 
under  a  general  anathema  against  secret  societies,  enforced  its 
discipline,  by  denying  to  its  members  who  belonged  to  them,  its 
favor  and  spiritual  rites  in  case  of  death,  the  effect  of  which 
was  to  gradually  withdraw  all  the  members  of  that  Church  from 
the  lodge,  s'o  that  but  few  of  that  denomination  were  left  to  the 
lodge  and  to  the  Order.  This  lodge  continues  to  prosper,  having 
at  this  time  317  members,  and  a  fund  of  $4825.15. 


ODD  FELLOWSHIP  IN  PENNSYLVANIA.  455 

Philanthropic  Lodge,  No.  15,  has  had  an  eventful  career  of 
now  nearly  a  half  century,  during  which  period  it  has  experi- 
enced severe  trials  of  adversity  as  well  as  prosperity.  It  is  diffi- 
cult to  say  whether  the  former  is  greater  than  the  latter ;  but  it  is 
<mite  certain  that  the  experience  of  life  demonstrates  that  adver- 
sity makes  people  wiser  and  better  generally  than  they  were, 
and  awakens  a  sense  of  dependence  upon  the  Creator,  which  im- 
proves and  elevates  the  heart.  The  lodge  was  chartered  July 
13th,  1829,  upon  the  application  of  Andrew  Anderson,  -  -  Ham- 
mer, Amos  Matthews,  Albert  G.  Bird,  Isaac  Holden,  Henry  P. 
Hopkins,  Joseph  Haas,  John  Cochran  and  Horatio  Gr.  Jones,  to 
be  located  at  Seventh  and  Chestnut  Streets,  in  the  city.  It  has 
stood  up  firmly  against  its  trials,  having  paid  all  its  obligations, 
except  for  the  short  period  of  six  months,  during  which  it  was 
compelled  to  suspend  the  payment  of  sick  benefits,  in  consequence 
of  the  failure  of  the  United  States  Bank  of  Pa.,  in  1810,  which 
swept  away  its  funds,  and  embarrassed  it  for  several  years.  The 
following  extract  from  an  address  before  the  lodge,  by  Wm.  C. 
Flanigan,  a  member  of  the  same,  in  1870,  entitled  "  A  retrospect 
of  thirty-six  years'  membership  in  Philanthropic  Lodge,  No.  15," 
is  worthy  of  a  place  in  this  connection.  It  will  inform  the  pre- 
sent members  of  the  Order,  from  a  reliable  source,  what  have 
been  the  trials  and  struggles  of  early  Odd  Fellows  in  building 
up  the  Order,  and  how  dearly,  therefore,  they  ought  to  prize  that 
rich  heritage  which  they  now  enjoy.  "  Our  lodge,"  he  remarks, 
*"  continued  to  grow  in  favor  and  usefulness  for  some  time,  but  it 
has  not  always  been  blest  with  seasons  of  sunshine  and  of  growth. 
She  has  had  her  dark  days,  as  well  as  some  others ;  seasons  of 
poverty,  when  it  required  the  energies  of  stout  hearts  and  willing 
hands  to  sustain  her;  when  it  was  not  always  convenient  as  now, 
to  <  draw  orders  for  the  brothers  entitled,'  but  when  the  little  knot 
of  brothers  would  gather  in  a  circle,  out  with  their  wallets,  and 
•each  contribute  his  mite  for  the  sustenance  of  the  sick  brother. 
You  who  have  come  here  within  the  last  fifteen  or  twenty  years, 
to  find  a  full  treasury  sufficient  to  meet  all  wants,  little  know  of 
the  sacrifices  of  those  who  were  before  you,  in  order  to  erect  the 
foundation  for  this  comfortable  '  PILE.'  Some  of  us  have  been 
schooled  in  those  days  of  trial,  and  know  the  value  of  our  pre- 
sent possessions.  Do  not  then  look  disdainfully  upon  us,  when 
we,  knowing  the  past,  are  jealous  of  the  future,  and  desire  to 
protect  that  future  from  want  in  all  time  to  come." 


450  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

These  words  of  wisdom  were  like  the  seed  of  the  husbandman 
sown  upon  good  ground,  they  fell  upon  willing  and  grateful 
hearts,  germinated  and  brought  forth  an  abundant  harvest, 
No.  15  has  for  the  last  thirty  years  steadily  increased  in  funds 
and  membership,  and  is  now  one  of  the  best  lodges  in  the  State. 
It  has  339  members,  and  $20,142.71  in  its  treasury. 

Harmony  Lodge,  No.  16,  was  chartered  on  the  petition  of 
Wm.  C.  Rudman,  Wm.  Wilkinson,  James  Goodman,  James  S. 
Taylor,  Wm.  Fox,  Kichard  G.  Lanning,  and  John  Graff,  on  July 
27th,  1829,  and  located  in  the  Grand  Lodge  room,  Seventh  and 
Chestnut  Streets,  city.  It  was  instituted  August  5th,  1829. 
Although  located  in  the  city,  the  membership  was  generally 
drawn  from  the  Northern  Liberties,  a  densely  settled  district  ad-, 
joining  the  northern  boundary  of  the  old  city  limits.  In  examin- 
ing the  roll  of  members  of  the  lodge  from  its  minute  book,  we 
find  that  they  were  drawn  from  the  best  classes  of  society,  con- 
sisting of  the  most  active  professional  and  business  men  in  that 
locality.  It  subsequently  changed  its  place  of  meeting  to  the  hall 
in  that  district,  where  it  continued  its  lodge  work  until  January 
31st,  1838,  when,  under  the  pressure  of  the  memorable  financial 
depression,  it  was  compelled  to  surrender  its  charter.  This  was 
done,  however,  in  good  order ;  for  although  its  treasury  was  de- 
pleted, the  members  were  celebrated  for  punctuality  and  regularity 
of  attendance  upon  lodge  duties.  Desirous  of  continuing  their 
membership  in  the  Order,  they  submitted  a  proposition  to  Phila- 
delphia Lodge,  No.  13,  to  unite  with  that  lodge.  Philadelphia 
Lodge  was  financially  better  off,  but  was  sadly  deficient  in  active 
and  zealous  members.  The  attendance  was  meagre,  and  the  in- 
terest in  lodge  meetings  was  consequently  dull  and  declining. 
The  proposition  was  accepted,  and  No.  16,  after  issuing  cards  to 
its  members,  surrendered  its  charter ;  the  cards  were  deposited 
in  No.  13.  Thus  the  two  lodges  were  consolidated.  Bro.  John 
C.  Yeager,  afterwards  G.  M.  of  the  State,  was  the  N.  G.  of  No. 
16  at  this  time,  to  whose  diplomacy  and  management  most  pro- 
bably was  due  the  success  of  this  measure,  which  preserved  both 
lodges  to  the  Order.  No.  16,  in  1S46,  was  re-instituted,  its 
charter  restored,  and  since  has  had  an  uninterrupted  career  of 
success.  It  now  numbers  252  members,  and  has  $8576.05. 

Northern  Liberty  Lodge,  No.  17,  was  chartered  August  13th, 
1829,  upon  the  petition  of  William  A.  Ennis,  John  Saunders,  Na- 


ODD    FELLOWSHIP   IN    PENNSYLVANIA.  457 

thaniel  Estlin,  James  Wilson,  and  Thomas  R.  Baird,  to  meet  in 
the  Kensington  Hall.  It  was  duly  instituted  by  D.  G.  M.  Isaac 
Brown,  August  24th,  1829.  The  lodge  from  the  start  seemed  to 
have  a  precarious  existence,  indeed  the  times  were  unfavorable 
to  success ;  besides,  it  soon  got  into  difficulties  with  the  G.  Lodge 
in  reference  to  the  payment  of  the  percentage,  producing  insub- 
ordination, which  resulted  in  the  suspension  of  the  Y.  G.  of  the 
lodge  and  five  other  members  for  three  months.  This  is  another 
evidence  of  the  summary  manner  in  which  the  G.  Lodge  then 
enforced  obedience  and  respect  for  its  authority.  Yol.  1,  Journal 
G.  L.  of  Pa.,  page  156.  An  unsuccessful  effort  was  made  at  the 
next  meeting  of  the  G.  Lodge,  to  have  the  resolution  of  suspen- 
sion reconsidered.  On  the  25th  of  November,  1833,  the  G.  M.  re- 
ported that  Lodge  No.  17  had  suspended  meeting  as  a  lodge. 
This  report  was  referred  to  the  past  and  present  G.  Lodge  Offi- 
cers. At  the  meeting  of  the  G.  Lodge,  held  February  17th,  1834, 
the  G.  Sec.  William  Skinner  reported  that  he  had  received  the 
charter  and  charge  books  of  Lodge  No.  17.  The  charter  was 
subsequently  restored  May  13th,  1846,  and  the  lodge  re-instituted 
June  3d,  1846.  It  has  been  in  successful  operation  since  then  to 
the  present  time,  with  228  members,  and  $3517.07  in  the 
treasury. 

La  Fayette  Lodge,  No.  18,  was  chartered  August  13th,  1829t 
upon  the  petition  of  Jesse  R.  Burden,  Jacob  Hubeli,  John  Oak- 
ford,  Marshal  Sprogel,  James  Boon,  and  Samuel  O'Conner,  to 
meet  in  the  G.  Lodge  room,  Seventh  and  Chestnut  Streets,  City. 
It  was  instituted  1829,  and  at  once  took  high  rank  in  the  Order, 
Its  extraordinary  success  excited  the  envy  of  some  of  the  older 
lodges,  which  feeling  was  exhibited  in  characterizing  it  as  the 
"silk  stocking  lodge."  It  was  composed  of  determined  and 
energetic  men,  a  material  not  easily  discouraged  or  driven  from 
a  good  purpose,  and  which  never  steps  aside  to  avoid  or  shun 
opposition  from  prejudice  or  envy.  Success  was  the  result.  No. 
18  has  maintained  its  prosperity  to  the  present  time.  P.  G.  M. 
Peter  Fritz  has  been  a  member  of  this  lodge  for  many  years, 
always  active  and  attentive  at  its  meetings.  It  has  101  members, 
with  a  large  fund,  $7709.80,  in  the  treasury. 

The  last  four  lodges,  Nos.  15,  16, 17  and  18,  opened  almost 
simultaneously,  owing  to  the  excitement  growing  out  of  the  diffi- 
culty with  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  which  was  then  agitating 


•458  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

i 

the  Order  in  Pennsylvania,  or  rather  in  the  city  of  Philadelphia, 
(for  there  was  but  little  of  the  Order  at  that  time  beyond  the 
city),  and  to  the  impetus  given  to  it  by  the  prospect  of  new  and 
commodious  accommodations  in  the  new  hall  in  Fifth  Street 
below  Walnut,  which  was  then  nearing  completion,  and  into 
which  the  several  city  lodges  moved  June,  1830.  Among  the 
petitioners  for  these  charters  will  be  found  many  honored  names 
still  familiar  to  Philadelphians.  Only  a  few  of  them  survive; 
the  organizations,  however,  which  they  set  in  motion  are  their 
lasting  monuments. 

Amity  Lodge,  No.  19,  was  chartered  Oct.  12th,  1829,  on  the 
application  of  Win.  E.  Tatem,  John  Dull,  B.  E.  Evans,  T. 
Lochrari,  and  Geo.  W.  Burgess,  to  be  located  at  Seventh  and 
Chestnut  Streets,  and  was  instituted  Oct.  31, 1829,  by  D.  G.  M. 
Isaac  Brown.  It  has  had  a  prosperous  career,  and  continues  in 
.  successful  work,  never  failing  in  the  discharge  of  duty  and  obli- 
gations to  its  membership.  Its  members  now  number  255,  and 
its  treasury  exceeds  $5000. 

Miners'  Lodge,  No.  20,  the  last  chartered  in  the  year  1829, 
was  authorized  by  law,  December  14th,  1829,  and  was  instituted 
immediately,  by  G.  M.  John  G.  Potts,  and  was  located  in  Potts- 
ville,  Schuylkill  county.  The  lodge  was  organized  by  men  en- 
gaged in  mining  anthracite  coal,  as  the  name  indicates.  It 
has  passed  through  severe  trials,  but  weathered  every  storm, 
and  maintained  its  organization  without  a  break  in  its  offi- 
cial life.  The  membership  is  nearly  100,  and  though  the  trea- 
sury is  light,  the  Lodge  owns  a  beautiful  cemetery,  valued  at 
$40,000. 

And  thus  we  complete  a  roll  which  has  no  parallel  in  Odd 
Fellowship.  These  are  the  lodges  which  grew  up  on  their  own 
roots,  without  waiting  for  the  grafting  process  of  later  times.  To 
them  Peniisylvanians  must  ever  look  with  honest  exultation  as 
the  mother  lodges  of  the  State,  and  rejoice  that  they  have  never 
soiled  the  banners  which  they  have  borne  for  half  a  century. 


CHAPTER    XVIII. 

THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    PENNSYLVANIA. 

Pennsylvania  was  the  third  State  to  unite  with  the  Wildey 
organization  ;  but  as  all  three  were  obtained  in  June,  1823,  it  may 
"be  assumed  that  Massachusetts,  New  York  and  Pennsylvania 
came  in  simultaneously.  At  all  events,  Pennsylvania,  which 
came  in  the  last  as  to  the  day,  was,  and  always  has  been,  the  first 
in  importance.  The  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  I.  O.  O.  F.  was 
chartered  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.  on  the  15th  of 
June,  1823.  It  was  opened  in  Philadelphia,  June  27th,  1823,  by 
G.  M.  Thomas  Wildey,  who  installed  the  following  officers: 
Aaron  Nichols,  G.  M.;  Thomas  Small,  D.  G.  M.;  Benjamin  Rich- 
ardson, G.  W.;  William  H.  Matthews,  G.  Sec.;  Joseph  Richard- 
eon,  G.  Treas.  The  G.  Charter  was  formally  delivered  to  the  G. 
Master  after  the  installation ;  and  thus  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsyl- 
vania, which  covers  a  mighty  area  of  Odd  Fellowship,  sprung 
into  existence. 

CHARTER   OF   THE   GRAND   LODGE  OF  PENNSYL- 
VANIA. 

ORDER  OF  INDEPENDENT  ODD  FELLOWS 

To  all  whom  it  may  concern : — The  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland 
and  of  the  United  States,  by  authority  of  a  Grand  Charter  granted 
by  the  Duke  of  York  Lodge,  held  in  the  Borough  of  Preston, 
County  Palatine  of  Lancaster,  England,  doth  hereby  grant  this 
Grand  Charter  to  five  Past  Grands  of  the  Order  of  Independent 
Odd  Fellows,  residing  in  the  State  of  Pennsylvania,  to  form  a 
Grand  Lodge  for  the  said  State,  for  the  encouragement  and  sup- 
port of  brothers  of  said  Order  when  on  travel  or  otherwise.  And 
the  said  Grand  Lodge,  being  duly  formed,  is  hereby  authorized 
and  empowered  to  grant  Warrants  or  Dispensations  to  true  and 
faithful  brothers  to  open  lodges  according  to  the  laws  of  Odd 
Fellowship,  and  to  administer  to  the  Past  Grands  all  the  privi- 
leges and  benefits  appertaining  to  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  to  enact 
by-]aws  for  the  government  of  the  lodge.  Provided,  always,  that 

(459) 


460  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

the  said  Grand  Lodge  do  act  according  to  the  Order,  and  in  con- 
junction with  and  obedience  to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland 
and  of  the  United  States,  adhering  to  and  supporting  the  Consti- 
tution of  the  same.  In  default  thereof  this  charter  may  be  sus- 
pended or  taken  away,  at  the  discretion  of  the  said  Grand  Lodge. 
And  further,  the  Grand  Lodge  (in  consideration  of  the  due  per- 
formance of  the  above)  do  bind  themselves  to  repair  all  damage 
or  destruction  of  this  charter,  whether  by  fire  or  other  accident, 
provided  evidence  be  given  that  there  is  no  illegal  concealment 
or  wilful  destruction  of  the  same.  In  witness  whereof  we  have 
displayed  the  colors  of  our  Order,  and  subscribed  our  names  and 
affixed  the  seal  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland  and  of  the 
United  States  hereto,  this  thirteenth  day  of  June,  A.  D.  one 
thousand  eight  hundred  and  twenty-three. 

THOMAS  WILDEY,  G.  M. 

JOHN  WELCH,  D.  G.  M. 
rgEAL-i  THOMAS  MITCHELL,  G.  W. 

JOHN  PAWSON  ENTWISLE,  G.  S. 

JOHN  BOYD,  G.  G. 

WM.  LARKAM,  G.  C. 

Past  Grands. 

DUNCAN  McCoEMiCK,  THOMAS  SCOTCHBURN, 

JAMES  SEED,  WILLIAM  WILLIAMS, 

JOHN  NELSON,  WILLIAM  ANSTICE, 

WILLIAM  TONG. 

The  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  assumed  its  position  as  a  State  G. 
Lodge  after  the  session  of  Nov.  22d,  1824,  and  the  G.  Lodge  of 
the  U.  S.  was  preliminarily  organized  Jan.  15th,  1825,  and  for- 
mally installed  30th  of  March,  1825.  This  Grand  body,  now 
appropriately  titled  and  organized,  having  received  a  new  charter 
from  the  Manchester  Unity  in  England,  dated  May  15th,  1826, 
granted  a  new  charter  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  dated 
May  1st,  1827,  under  which  it  now  acts,  in  lieu  of  the  original. 

We  have  ventured  to  contradict  the  printed  journal,  which 
contains  the  name  of  Benjamin  Daffin  as  the  first  G.  See* 
of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pa.,  and  proceed  to  assign  our  reasons  for  so 
doing.  First,  Bro.  Benjamin  Daffin,  who  is  recorded  in  the 
printed  journal  as  first  G.  Sec.,  was  initiated  into  the  Order  June 
24th,  1823,  only  three  days  before  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pa.  was  insti- 
tuted by  Thomas  Wildey,  G.  M.  It  is  not  therefore  probable 
that  an  initiate  would  be  taken  for  a  Grand  Officer,  who  was 
necessarily  required  to  be  a  Past  Grand.  Secondly,  there  has. 


BENJAMIN  BAFFIN. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE   OF    PENNSYLVANIA.  461 

been  discovered  in  the  G.  Secretary's  office,  evidence  of  a  corres- 
pondence addressed  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S. 
dated  December  16th,  1823,  signed  by  Wm.  H.  Matthews, 
Secretary.  Third,  other  evidence  exists  in  the  Secretary's  office, 
in  the  form  of  a  pocket  manual,  published  in  October  1829,  in 
I  which  the  names  of  all  the  first  G.  Officers  appear,  among  which 
lis  that  of  "William  H.  Matthews,  G.  Secretary.  The  evidence 
places  the  fact  beyond  doubt.  In  addition  to  which  we  have  the 
confirmatory  impression  of  Bro.  Daffin  himself  of  the  error,  and 
his  cordial  acquiescence  in  its  correction. 

BENJAMIN   DAFFIN. 

Benjamin  Daffin  was  undoubtedly  the  second  G.  Secretary, 
by  election,  which  took  place  November  15th,  1824,  and  he  so 
attests  the  minutes.  He  served  out  the  regular  term  of  his 
office,  and  gave  general  satisfaction.  He  was  a  zealous  member 
of  the  Order  at  that  early  day,  and  continued  to  be  a  valuable 
acquisition  until  the  McMahon  controversy  in  Pennsylvania 
Lodge,  when  he  unfortunately  sympathized  with  the  disloyal 
members.  As  a  consequence,  he  was  expelled  with  his  refractory 
associates.  In  the  meantime,  in  1830,  having  made  his  arrange- 
ments to  that  effect,  he  removed  to  Baltimore,  Maryland.  He 
was  out  of  the  Order  in  that  State  for  several  years,  in  conse- 
quence of  the  penalty  he  had  incurred  in  Pennsylvania.  With 
the  aid  of  G.  S.  "Wildey  and  G.  Sec.  Eidgely,  he  made  his  peace 
with  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  by  which  he  was  reinstated 
and  granted  a  card.  He  was  thus  enabled,  by  permission  of  the 
G.  Lodge  of  Md.,  to  join  Marion  Lodge,  No.  8,  of  that  jurisdic- 
tion, of  which  he  was  an  active  and  useful  member  until  his 
death.  He  died  in  1877,  beloved  by  his  lodge  and  Encamp- 
ment, and  revered  by  all  who  knew  him  as  a  venerable  Patriarch 
of  that  jurisdiction.  He  was  not  only  a  member  of  Marion  Lodge, 
No.  8,  but  also  of  Jerusalem  Encampment,  No.  1,  of  the  jurisdic- 
tion of  Maryland,  at  the  time  of  his  death,  in  the  74th  year  of  his 
age.  We  are  indebted  to  a  friend  for  a  good  likeness  of  him, 
taken  a  year  before  his  death,  which  presents  him  as  a  well  pre- 
served man.  He  was  greatly  respected  by  all  who  knew  him, 
and  was  for  many  years,  during  the  decline  of  life,  in  comfortable 
circumstances.  In  company  with  P.  G.  S.  Stuart  and  G.  Sec. 


462  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

Ridgely,  G.  Sire  Stokes  called  at  his  dwelling  on  North  High 
Street,  Baltimore,  to  confer  with  him  on  the  subject  of  his  posi- 
tion on  the  printed  record  as  first  G.  Sec.  of  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Pennsylvania.  He  found  him  in  apparent  good  health  and 
spirits.  The  circumstances  of  the  case,  when  brought  to  his  mind, 
readily  impressed  him  with  the  error  of  the  record,  to  the  correc- 
tion of  which  he  gave  his  cordial  acquiescence.  At  the  instance 
of  G.  Sec.  Ridgely,  it  was  deemed  advisable  that  the  facts  should 
be  brought  to  the  attention  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  State,  and  that 
its  official  assent  should  be  had  to  the  correction  of  this  error  of 
record.  Accordingly,  the  following  proceeding  was  had  in  that 
Grand  Body  on  the  subject : 

"  In  Grand  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  May  Session,  1876. 
"Whereas,  by  reference  to  the  first  proceedings,  Vol.  1,  page  1  to 
4  inclusive,  of  the  journal  of  the  G.  Lodge,  from  December 
13th,  1823,  to  November  8th,  1824,  the  minutes  are  attested  by 
B.  Daffin  as  Secretary.  And  whereas,  research  has  disclosed 
the  fact  that  one  William  H.  Matthews  was  chosen  the  first 
G.  Secretary  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania.  Therefore,  Re- 
solved, that  in  order  to  correct  what  appears  upon  the  face  of 
the  record  to  be  a  glaring  inconsistency,  and  for  the  purpose  of 
preserving  and  maintaining  the  truth  of  history,  that  this  G. 
Lodge  is  satisfied,  from  the  evidence  furnished,  that  William  H. 
Matthews  was  the  first  G.  Secretary  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Penn- 
sylvania, elected  at  the  institution  thereof,  June  27th,  1823.  Re- 
solved, that  in  making  this  correction,  this  G.  Lodge  disclaims 
all  intention  of  disrespect  to  the  worthy  brother  whose  zeal  and 
devotion  in  the  early  struggle  of  the  Order  prompted  him  to 
volunteer  his  assistance  in  maintaining  an  organization,  in  which 
the  officer  entrusted  with  that  duty  seemed  to  exhibit  such  evi- 
dent indifference  and  lukewarmness." 

It  does  not  follow  that  Bro.  Daffin  has  lost  credit  of  any  kind 
by  this  correction.  Matthews  was  G.  Secretary  indeed,  by 
election,  but  Daffin  was  in  constant  performance  of  the  duties 
of  that  place.  He  was  the  de  facto  G.  Secretary,  attending  the 
meetings  and  keeping  the  minutes.  The  fact  is  that  Matthews 
was  only  the  nominal  officer,  and  although  he  may  have  signed 
one  or  two  papers  in  that  capacity,  had  nothing  to  do  with  the 
performance  of  a  Secretary's  duty.  To  Daffin  then  belongs  the 
honor  of  performing  the  duties  of  G.  Secretary  of  the  G.  Lodge 
of  Pennsylvania  during  its  first  two  terms.  This  recollection 
always  gave  him  pleasure,  as  it  linked  his  name  with  the  begin- 
ning of  the  greatest  local  Grand  Body  known  to  the  Order. 


THENICHOLS  MONUMENT  ERECTED  BY  THEGRANQ&  SUBORDINATE  LODGES  OF  PENNSYLVANIA  I.O.O.C 
CHAMBERSBURGH. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE  OF    PENNSYLVANIA. 
AARON    NICHOLS. 

Aaron  Nichols,  the  first  G.  Master  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Penn- 
sylvania, was  of  English  origin,  was  born  in  1778,  and  was  a 
saw-maker  by  trade.  At  what  time  he  emigrated  to  the  United 
States,  and  when  or  where  he  united  with  the  Order  of  Odd  Fel- 
lows, is  unknown.  The  G.  Lodge  having  been  instituted  in  June, 
1823,  it  follows  that  Bro.  Nichols,  who  was  then  45  years  of  age, 
must  have  been  initiated  several  years  previously.  He  died  in 
Chambersburg,  in  1856,  after  a  well-spent  life.  He  lies  in  the 
beautiful  cemetery  near  Chambersburg,  by  the  side  of  his 
wife.  His  brethren  have  marked  the  place  of  sepulture  by  a 
beautiful  brown-stone  monument,  which  has  been  appropriately 
inscribed  and  is  preserved  with  religious  care.  The  Order  is  in- 
debted for  this  memorial  chiefly  to  the  persevering  exertions  of 
J.  H.  McCauley,  P.  G.  M.,  and  the  Grand  and  subordinate 
lodges  of  the  State  caused  it  to  be  erected.  Columbus  Lodge,- 
No.  75,  in .  Chambersburg,  takes  pride  in  keeping  it  in  order r 
and  visiting  brethren  are  often  taken  by  its  members  upon  a 
pilgrimage  to  the  grave.  This  is  a  just  tribute  to  one  whose 
memory  is  held  in  great  veneration,  as  the  first  G.  Master  of  the 
State. 

Bro.  McCauley,  P.  G.  M.,  furnishes  the  following  sketch  of 
him:  "Bro.  Aaron  Nichols,  P.  G.  M.,  resided  in  Chambersburg 
many  years,  and  worked  at  his  trade  as  a  saw-maker.  He  was 
an  industrious,  honest  and  upright  man,  universally  respected 
and  esteemed.  He  was  an  Englishman,  and  although  somewThat 
brusque  in  manner,  was  as  well  behaved  as  his  countrymen 
generally.  His  vice,  if  it  may  be  so  called,  was  his  fondness  for 
the  social  glass  at  lodge  meetings.  In  this  habit  his  fellow 
members  generally  indulged  while  the  practice  prevailed.  In 
personal  appearance  Bro.  Nichols  resembled  Bro.  Wildey,  and 
was  large  and  corpulent."  We  have  inserted  an  engraving  of 
his  monument,  but  have  not  been  able  to  obtain  a  likeness  of  the 
brother. 

The  annual  meeting  of  the  G.  Body  was  first  fixed  for  the 
first  Monday  of  February,  1824.  Subsequently,  in  adopting  the 
constitution  of  the  G.  Lodge,  the  13th  day  of  June,  which  was- 
the  accepted  anniversary  of  the  Order,  was  fixed  by  law  as  the 
period  of  the  annual  meeting.  There  had  been  during  the  first 


464  AMERICAN   ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

year  of  Bro.  Nichols'  official  life,  but  little  movement  in  the  G. 
Lodge.  Such  was  the  want  of  interest  felt  by  the  officers  and 
members,  that  no  election  of  officers  took  place  at  the  end  of  the 
year,  nor  had  any  constitution  been  adopted.  Steps  were  accord- 
ingly taken  in  that  direction.  A  constitution  was  adopted  Oct. 
llth,  1824,  and  an  election  for  Grand  Officers  took  place  on  Nov. 
15th,  1824.  Thomas  Small  was  elected  G.  M.  to  succeed  Ero. 
Nichols,  and  Benjamin  Daffin,  G.  Secretary. 

THOMAS    SMALL. 

Bro.  Small  was  re-elected  at  the  end  of  his  term  of  office, 
serving  until  June  13th,  1826.  He  was  popular,  and  de- 
servedly so,  as  his  zeal,  industry  and  devotion  to  the  cause  were 
characteristic  of  a  general  business  habit.  He  was  D.  G.  M. 
under  G.  M.  Nichols,  and  succeeded  him  in  office.  Like  most 
of  his  contemporaries  in  the  Order,  he  w^as  an  Englishman,  and 
was  engaged  in  the  trade  of  a  cabinet-maker.  He  was  the  father 
of  Gen.  W.  F.  Small  of  Philadelphia,  who  is  generally  and  favor- 
ably remembered.  Bro.  T.  Small  was  the  intimate  personal 
friend  and  companion  of  Thomas  Wildey,  and  was  his  colleague 
on  the  Annual  Moveable  Committee  of  the  G.  L.  of  the  U.  S.  in  the 
official  visitations  of  that  body  to  the  several  State  jurisdictions. 
He  was  a  man  of  excellent  judgment  and  intelligence,  and  was 
sought  out  by  G.  M.  Wildey  as  an  acquisition,  when  the  Order 
greatly  needed  such  men.  Thomas  Small  had  faith  in  the  future 
of  Odd  Fellowship,  and  was  impelled  forward  in  his  zeal  by  this 
incentive.  He  had  also  faith  in  "Wildey,  whose  wish  was  a  law 
with  him,  and  faith  in  his  mission  as  the  father  of  a  great  brother- 
hood ;  he  was  also  a  zealous  laborer.  He  was  the  first  G.  Repre- 
sentative of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  in  the  G.  Lodge  of  the 
U.  S.,  appearing  in  that  G.  Body  at  the  April  session  of  1826, 
whilst  G.  Master  of  the  State.  John  Boyd  of  Maryland  had  been 
the  very  acceptable  proxy  Representative  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Pa.,  up  to  the  appearance  of  G.  Rep.  Small,  on  this  occasion. 
This  session  of  1826  was  memorable,  from  the  fact  that  it  was  the 
first  at  which  the  title  of  Grand  Sire  appears  to  have  been  assumed. 

Bro.  Small  was  chosen  G.  Secretary  in  June,  1827,  in  which 
position  he  served  until  June,  1829.  He  was  again  returned  as 
G.  Representative  to  the  G.  L.  of  the  U.  S.  at  the  session  of  1828. 


THOMAS  SMALL. 


SAMUEL  PRYOR. 


THE  OB  AND  LODGE  OF  PENNSYLVANIA.  465 

The  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  has  always  appreciated  her  right 
of  representation  in  the  Supreme  Grand  Body,  not  only  for  the 
high  privilege  it  enjoys  as  an  integral  member  of  the  federal 
union,  but  for  the  honor  of  contributing  her  experience  to  the 
counsels  of  that  legislative  Grand  Body.  Thus  it  has  from  1826 
to  the  present  time,  now  nearly  fifty  years,  never  failed  to  be 
represented  in  that  honorable  body.  The  subject  of  this  memoir 
as  G.  Secretary,  contributed  much  to  the  proper  organization  of 
that  important  arid  responsible  office  of  the  Order.  In  the  grow- 
ing condition  of  an  institution  such  as  ours,  there  is  no  more 
useful  officer  than  a  G.  Secretary,  and  when  he  is  competent  and 
faithful,  the  body  which  he  serves  is  fortunate  in  having  placed 
the  right  man  in  the  right  place.  G.  Sec.  Small  served  out  his 
term  with  honor  and  credit,  and  continued  to  be  an  active  and 
useful  Odd  Fellow,  until  advancing  age  required  his  gradual 
retirement  from  active  life.  He  died  in  Philadelphia,  honored 
.and  revered  as  one  of  the  contemporaries  of  Father  Wildey. 

Rudolph  H.  Bartle  succeeded  Thomas  Small,  as  G.  M.  He 
ivas  elected  June  13th,  1826.  He  also  was  of  English  origin,  and 
was  a  master  builder  and  contractor  by  occupation.  He  was  a  man 
of  peculiar  energy  of  character,  firm  and  decisive  in  his  opinions, 
and  of  clear,  discriminating  and  intelligent  conclusions.  He  was 
social  and  hospitable  in  his  nature,  and  enjoyed  lodge  conviviality 
when  properly  disciplined  and  controlled.  He  was  highly  re- 
spected as  a  citizen,  and  stood  well  in  his  business.  He  took 
great  interest  in  the  military  organizations  of  the  city,  holding 
the  rank  of  Colonel  among  the  State  soldiery.  His  name  is  well 
remembered  in  the  Order,  and  his  memory  is  highly  cherished  as 
one  of  our  noble  and  worthy  P.  G.  Officers. 

SAMUEL    PBYOB. 

Samuel  Pry  or  is  the  sole  surviving  P.  G.  M.  of  the  first  decade 
in  Pennsylvania.  His  administration  of  the  office  of  G.  Master 
marked  a  new  and  important  era  in  the  Order  in  the  State.  He 
was  born  in  Philadelphia,  July  25th,  1796.  He  has  exceeded 
the  ordinary  length  of  life,  and  still  lives,  a  well  preserved  man, 
with  the  exception  of  his  sight,  which  fails  him.  His  mental 
faculties  are  good,  and  his  memory  is  vigorous,  especially  con- 
cerning the  annals  of  early  Odd  Fellowship.  His  recital  of  the 
30 


466  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

early  history  of  the  lodges  and  their  trials  and  struggles,  is  ex- 
ceedingly entertaining ;  his  narratives  of  the  incidents  and  sur- 
roundings of  the  "  Harmonies "  indulged  seem  to  rekindle  his 
early  manhood  and  make  him  forget  his  weight  of  years.  He  was 
initiated  in  Washington  Lodge,  No.  2,  Philadelphia,  April  13th, 
1824,  which  held  its  meeting  at  that  time  in  Bread  Street  above 
Arch.  He  was  one  of  the  charter  members  of  Wayne  Lodge, 
No.  3,  instituted  Dec.  26th,  1824,  in  which  Lodge  he  three  times 
passed  the  chair  of  N.  G.  He  afterwards  became  a  member  of 
Kensington  Lodge,  No.  11 ;  returned  to  No.  3,  and  subsequently 
joined  Philadelphia  Lodge,  No.  13.  He  became  a  member  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania,  November  2d,  1825,  in  which 
body  he  acted  as  G.  Sec.^>.  t.,  from  Dec.  7th,  1825,  to  June  13th,. 

1826,  when  he  succeeded  to  that  office.     He  served  in  this  posi- 
tion until  June  llth,  1827,  when  he  was  elected  G.  Master  of  the 
State  to  succeed  Rudolph  H.  Bartle.     The  journals  of  the  times, 
present  him  as  an  active  and  useful  member. 

He  was  by  birth  and  education  a  Quaker,  a  man  of  culture^ 
of  easy  and  affable  manners,  and  of  good  address.  He  was  pop- 
ular and  highly  esteemed  in  the  G.  Lodge.  Under  instructions 
from  that  body,  its  G.  Representatives  nominated  him  for  Grand 
Sire,  at  the  May  session  of  the  G.  L.  IT.  S.,  1829.  He  received 
the  complimentary  vote  of  his  State ;  Bro.  Wildey  being  re-elected 
for  a  second  term  of  four  years.  He  was  afterwards,  June  the  8th, 
1829,  elected  G.  Secretary  of  the  G.  L.  of  IT.  S.,  and  served  in  that 
capacity  until  June  13th,  1831.  He  acted  as  G.  Secretary  p.  t. 
of  the  G.  L.  of  the  U.  S.  at  the  September  session,  1832,  which, 
in  consequence  of  the  prevailing  epidemic,  continued  but  for  a 
single  day.  He  was  the  first  native  who  occupied  the  G.  Master's 
chair  in  Pennsylvania,  and  his  election  was  considered  a  triumph 
of  the  moral  over  the  social  element  of  the  Order.  Soon  after 
the  convivial  practice  lost  its  predominance,  and  its  fall  followed. 
In  1842  Bro.  Pryor  removed  to  the  city  of  New  York,  engaged 
in  the  plumbing  business  in  co-partnership  with  P.  D.  G.  Sire 
John  Pearce.  He  joined  Siloam  Lodge,  No.  210,  of  that  city. 
He  also  attached  himself  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  State,  and  took 
a  deep  interest  in  the  Order  in  that  jurisdiction  for  several  years. 
Siloam  Lodge  surrendered  its  charter  in  1851,  and  P.  G.  M. 
Pryor  now  holds  a  withdrawal  card  from  that  lodge. 

The  minutes  of  Washington  Lodge,  No.  2,  of  August  24th, 

1827,  contain  the  following  resolution :  "  Resolved,  That  Wash- 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    PENNSYLVANIA.  467 

ington  Lodge,  No.  2,  disapproves  tlie  continuance  of  the  bar,  and 
that  it  be  recommended  to  lodges  Nos.  1  and  3  to  pass  a  similar 
resolution."  The  minutes  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  of  Au- 
gust 15th,  1827,  contain  a  like  resolution.  Wayne  Lodge,  No.  3, 
surrendered  its  charter  October  8th,  1827.  Thus  ended  convi- 
viality in  the  Order  in  Pennsylvania.  G.  M.  Pryor  had  now  but 
two  subordinate  lodges  in  Philadelphia,  from  each  of  which  the 
bar  was  excluded  by  resolution.  It  had  been  patiently  endured 
for  several  years  in  Philadelphia,  and  found  wanting.  The  moral 
element  was  now  in  the  ascendant,  and  was  rapidly  gaining. 
The  abolition  of  the  bar  inspired  the  Order  with  new  life,  since 
which  Odd  Fellowship  has  never  ceased  to  prosper  in  the  juris- 
diction, gradually  increasing  in  numbers,  wealth  and  usefulness. 
It  has  addressed  itself  to  the  popular  mind  as  an  effective  plan  of 
affording  relief,  reliable  and  undoubted,  and  applied  under  cir- 
cumstances which  do  not  humble  manhood  or  the  natural  pride 
of  the  sufferer. 

William  H.  Mathews,  the  successor  of  Grand  Master  Pryor, 
was  elected  June  9th,  1828.  He  was  English  by  birth ;  by  occupa- 
tion the  proprietor  of  bath-houses,  on  South  Second  Street,  below 
Dock  Street,  near  the  custom-house.  Bath-houses  at  that  day 
were  highly  appreciated  in  Philadelphia  as  hygienic  institutions, 
being  almost  unknown  in  private  residences,  when  now  the 
smallest  houses  are  regarded  as  deficient  and  incomplete  without 
bathing  facilities.  Odd  Fellowship  has,  in  like  manner,  become 
developed  as  a  social  and  benevolent  need,  and  society  has  applied 
it  as  a  necessary  adjunct  to  the  moral  forces  of  the  age.  From 
one  lodge,  with  five  members,  in  1821,  we  have  increased  in  Phila- 
delphia to  134,  and  in  the  State  of  Pennsylvania  to  880  lodges, 
with  nearly  one  hundred  thousand  members ;  and  from  a  nom- 
inal revenue,  at  the  same  period  (1821),  to  the  grand  aggregate 
of  $903,767.96,  with  a  relief  expenditure  of  $448,136.  Such 
fruits  demonstrate  the  character  of  the  tree  which  has  produced 
them,  and  the  progressive  growth  of  the  Order  with  the  popula- 
tion, wealth  and  resources  of  the  State.  Bro.  Mathews,  M.  W. 
G.  M.,  was  highly  esteemed  by  his  brethren,  and  was  generally 
reputed  as  an  honest,  honorable  and  intelligent  citizen.  He  was 
N.  G.  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  when  that  lodge  petitioned 
the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.  for  a  charter,  and  the  first 
G.  Sec.  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania.  Like  many  of  his  con- 


468  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

temporaries,  after  a  life  of  zealous  devotion  to  the  Order,  and 
active  citizenship,  he  dropped  out  of  line  and  ceased  his  member- 
ship. 

John  G.  Potts  succeeded  Grand  Master  Mathews.  He  was 
a  member  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  and  was  elected  G.  M. 
June  8th,  1829.  He  was  an  American  born,  successfully  en- 
gaged in  the  hardware  business  in  the  city  of  Philadelphia.  His 
official  term  of  office  closes  the  first  decade  of  Odd  Fellowship, 
during  which  period  there  was  no  break  or  interruption  in  the 
succession  of  G.  Masters  of  the  State.  Bro.  Potts  was  G.  M.  at 
the  time  of  the  conflict  between  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  and 
the  G.  Lodge  of  the  State.  It  was  fortunate  for  Odd  Fellowship 
that  so  sterling  and  high-toned  a  citizen  was  then  the  chief  officer 
in  that  jurisdiction.  He  was  a  popular  member  of  Pennsylvania 
Lodge,  No.  1,  but  was  nevertheless  unable  to  control  the  disloyal 
element,  which  directed  the  proceedings  to  its  unhappy  disrup- 
tion. The  rise  and  progress  of  that  unfortunate  controversy 
has  been  already  minutely  narrated,  and  will  not  be  repeated. 
G.  M.  Potts  was  in  the  chair  when  the  G.  Lodge  decided  to  va- 
cate the  charter  of  No.  1.  He  immediately  left  the  chair,  and 
with  all  the  P.  Grands  of  that  lodge,  except  two,  retired  from 
the  room.  The  G.  Lodge  invited  G.  M.  Potts  to  return  to  the 
lodge-room,  and,  in  compliance  with  his  obligation,  to  resume 
and  fulfil  the  duties  of  his  office  until  the  end  of  the  year.  This 
invitation  was  conveyed  to  him  by  a  special  committee,  who 
returned  with  him  and  presented  him  to  the  lodge.  He  resumed 
the  chair,  and  was  authorized  to  take  and  hold  the  charter  of 
Lodge  No.  1,  so  soon  as  it  could  be  obtained.  Unfortunately  it 
had  been  surreptitiously  removed,  and  was  never  afterwards  re- 
covered. A  new  charter  was  in  a  few  days  granted  to  Pennsyl- 
vania Lodge,  No.  1,  since  which  time  it  has  had  a  career"  of 
reasonable  prosperity.  P.  G.  M.  Potts,  at  the  expiration  of  his 
official  term,  was  elected  G.  Treasurer  for  two  successive  terms, 
in  which  office  he  proved  to  be  faithful  and  efficient. 

He  joined  in  that  immense  caravan  which,  in  1835,  took  up 
its  line  of  march  for  the  West,  and  settled  in  Galena,  Illinois, 
where  he  resided  until  death,  at  an  advanced  age,  on  January 
18th,  1874.  He  was  an  active,  zealous  and  working  Odd  Fellow 
for  nearly  half  a  century,  having  been  initiated  in  Pennsylvania 
Lodge,  No.  1,  Sept.  25th,  1825.  Having  done  yeoman  service 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    rENJSSYLVANIA.  469 

for  the  Order  in  the  West,  we  take  pleasure  in  referring  to  the 
record,  for  the  many  testimonials  it  contains  of  his  official  life 
and  services  as  a  D.  D.  G.  Sire  of  the  Order.  See  journal  G.  L. 
of  U.  S.,  annual  session  of  1874,  page  6292  ;  address  of  G.  Rep. 
John  C.  Smith,  of  Illinois,  and  reports  of  Grand  Sire  and  G. 
Cor.  and  Rec.  See's  of  the  same  session. 

No  report  appears  to  have  been  made  from  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Pennsylvania  to  the  G.  Lodge  of  Md.  and  of  the  United  States, 
for  the  year  ending  February,  1824,  the  first  year  of  its  existence, 
at  which  time  there  was  but  one  lodge  in  the  State,  but  one  in 
Massachusetts,  one  in  New  York,  and  but  three  in  Maryland. 
There  was  no  detailed  report  from  any  of  these  jurisdictions, 
and  no  systematic  returns  appear  until  1828,  when  Pennsylvania 
reports  568  members.  We  have  already  furnished  the  substance 
of  the  annual  reports  made  by  the  subordinate  jurisdictions  to 
the  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S.,  as  they  appear  on  the  journal 
of  that  G.  body.  It  will  be  concluded  from  an  examination  of 
these  reports,  that  from  the  meagreness  of  the  material  out  of 
which  they  are  formed,  in  comparison  with  the  progress  which 
had  been  made  in  the  subordinate  Grand  jurisdictions,  the 
Supreme  Grand  body  was  illy  advised  of  the  condition  of  the 
Order.  Bro.  Wildey,  from  June,  1822,  when  he  had  consum- 
mated the  contemplated  federal  union  of  the  self-instituted 
lodges,  was  unremittent  in  his  visitations  of  the  several  jurisdic- 
tions, and  earnest  in  his  correspondence  with  the  lodges.  No 
effort  was  left  unemployed  by  him  to  conciliate  and  harmonize 
and  strengthen  the  Union.  Some  of  this  correspondence  with 
the  authorities  in  Pennsylvania  will  be  presented,  showing  that 
Odd  Fellowship  in  America  was  no  small  undertaking,  but  has 
been  achieved  by  persistent  effort  and  by  untiring  ambition ; 
and  if  it  is  to  be  perpetuated,  requires  a  like  industry  and  per- 
severance in  the  chosen  administrators  of  affairs.  Thomas  Wil- 
dey, as  we  have  already  said,  made  the  month  of  June,  1823, 
memorable  in  the  calendar  of  the  Order,  and  we  trust  that  this 
fact  may  find  its  just  place  in  the  history  of  the  advancing 
civilization  of  our  country,  and  that  no  authentic  or  reliable  his- 
toric memorial  of  the  times  will  be  ventured  without  the  incor- 
poration of  this  fact  into  its  text. 

The  following  is  a  copy  of  the  official  report  of  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Pa.  to  the  G.  L.  of  the  U.  S.,  made  up  to  December, 
1826,  by  Samuel  Pryor,  G.  Secretary : 


470 


AMERICAN     ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


YEARLY    EFFORT  OF    GRAND    LODGE    OF  PA.  I.  O.  O.  F.  FOR    THE  TEAK 
ENDING    DECEMBER,  1826. 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  Pa.  is  composed  of  the  following  mem- 
bers, to  wit :  Rudolph  H.  Bartle,  G.  M.;  John  Pearce,  D.  G.  M  ; 
Wm.  H.  Mathews,  G.  Warden ;  Samuel  Pry  or,  G.  Secretary; 
Emor  T.  Weaver,  G.  Treasurer ;  Isaac  Brown,  G.  Guardian  ;  Jas. 
Day,  G.  Conductor;  Aaron  Nichols  and  Thomas  Small,  P.  G. 
Masters ;  John  Upton,  John  H.  Campbell,  Thomas  Y.  Blakemore, 
Robert  Thomas,  John  G.  Potts,  Benjamin  Houseman,  Benjamin 
Daffin,  Robert  Dean,  honorary  member,  Benjamin  Richardson, 
Joseph  Weatherby,  Samuel  Craycroft,  Thos.  Johnston,  Wm. 
Richardson,  John  Cross,  Westall  Richardson.  The  G.  Lodge 
meets  at  the  hall  corner  of  7th  and  Chestnut  Streets,  annually, 
on  the  second  Monday  in  June,  and  quarterly  on  the  second 
Monday  of  the  ensuing  month,  and  on  its  own  adjournments. 
It  has  under  its  jurisdiction  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  135 
members,  13  P.  Grands;  Washington  Lodge,  No.  2,  111  mem- 
bers, 7  P.  Grands  ;  Wayne  Lodge,  No.  3,  75  members,  1  P.  Grand  ; 
Morning  Star  Lodge,  No.  4,  25  members,  3  P.  Grands.  Odd 
Fellowship  in  this  State  has  for  the  last  12  months  flourished  in 
an  unprecedented  manner.  Union  and  good  feeling  towards 
each  other  have  generally  prevailed  among  the  brethren. 

This  is  accompanied  by  the  following  from  the  G.  Secretary : 

We  herewith  enclose  the  report  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pa,  for  the 
year  1826.  I  am  directed  to  request  you  to  send  to  the  Grand 
Lodge  of  Pa.  one  copy  of  all  the  books  from  Europe  and  other 
places  that  you  have  to  dispose  of,  relative  to  Odd  Fellowship, 
and  we  will  pay  for  them.  The  amount  of  dues  received  by  these 
four  lodges  for  the  last  twelve  months  is  $1211.70.  You  will  ob- 
serve that  No.  4  has  been  in  existence  but  3  quarters.  The  three 
lodges  that  meet  in  the  city  charge  $5  initiation  fee.  The  lodge 
in  Kensington  charges  $3.  One  member  of  Lodge  No.  2  was 
expelled  for  intoxication,  Sept.  11,  1826.  2  candidates  were 
rejected  by  Lodge  No.  1,  and  one  by  Lodge  No.  2,  June  27, 1826. 
The  G.  Lodge  has,  during  the  year,  passed  many  salutary  laws, 
among  which  is  a  law  regulating  the  regalia  worn  by  the  officers 
and  members ;  also  a  law  to  prevent  any  person  from  becoming  a 
member  under  21  or  over  45  years  of  age,  except  by  permission 
from  the  G.  Lodge ;  also  a  law  to  prevent  the  charge-books  from 
being  taken  out  of  the  lodge-room,  and  a  law  to  regulate  the 
manner  of  conferring  degrees,  and  providing  for  degree  officers. 
The  G.  Lodge  has  revised  and  printed  the  G.  L.  Constitution, 
also  the  charge,  work,  &c.,  for  the  subordinate  lodges,  and  has 
provided  forms  for  quarterly  reports.  I  am  also  directed  to  re- 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    PENNSYLVANIA.  471 

quest  a  copy  of  the  constitution  and  laws  of  the  G.  L.  of  U.  S. 
In  examining  our  yearly  report  you  will  no  doubt  be  gratified  to 
find  this  portion  of  your  charge  in  prosperity.  The  G.  Lodge,  in 
requesting  the  books,  &c.,  from  Europe,  is  actuated  by  a  wish  to 
obtain  all  the  light  in  their  power  for  itself  and  for  those  under  its 
charge.  Aware  of  your  recent  visit  to  Europe,  we  suppose  you 
must  be  in  possession  of  many  valuable  works  relative  to  Odd 
Fellowship.  If  you  have  them  to  spare,  we  would  be  happy  if 
you  send  them  to  us. 

The  'G.  Secretary  also  transmitted  the  following  to  Bro.  John 
Boyd,  in  the  same  connection  : 

We  have  enclosed  to  your  care  three  letters ;  also  one  from  a 
subordinate  lodge,  directed  to  G.  M.  Wildey ;  also  one  letter  di- 
rected to  the  Grand  Master  of  the  State  of  Maryland,  which  we 
will  be  much  obliged  if  you  will  deliver.  We  have  sent  you  a 
copy  of  the  Constitution  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania. 
We  have  requested  G.  Sire  Wildey  to  send  us  a  copy  of  any  book 
received  from  Europe  or  elsewhere  that  he  may  have  to  spare, 
for  which  we  will  promptly  pay,  also  to  send  us  a  copy  of  the 
-constitution  and  by-laws  of  the  G.  L.  of  the  U.  S.  If  you  will 
interest  yourself  to  procure  the  above  we  will  esteem  it  a  great 
favor.  The  G.  Lodge  will  hold  an  adjourned  stated  meeting  on 
the  3d  Monday  of  February,  and  we  will  be  happy  to  hear  from 
jou  previous  to  that  time. 

G.  Secretary  Pry  or  also  sent  the  following  to  Bro.  John  Boyd, 
of  the  date  of  March  17th,  1827 : 

We  addressed  a  letter  to  you,  dated  January  10th,  enclosing 
to  your  care  sundry  letters  to  the  Grand  Sire  and  also  to  the 
Grand  Master  of  Maryland.  No  answer  has  yet  been  received. 
We  would  be  glad  to  have  the  receipt  of  them  acknowledged  as 
far  as  in  your  power,  and  to  have  your  replies  addressed  to  the 
G.  Secretary.  The  G.  Lodge  will  meet  in  about  a  week,  and  we 
hope  your  answers  will  be  in  our  possession  by  that  time,  that 
we  may  be  enabled  to  inform  it  touching  the  books  requested 
from  the  Grand  Sire.  Trusting  confidingly  in  your  zeal  for  our 
interest,  we  remain  in  F.  L.  &  T.,  yours  fraternally. 

These  two  letters  will  be  explained  by  the  fact  that  John  Boyd 
was  the  Proxy  Representative  of  Pennsylvania  in  the  G.  L.  U.  S. 

The  subjoined  from  Thomas  Small,  G.  Sec.,  to  G.  M.  Wildey, 
of  the  date  of  July  1st,  1827,  speaks  for  itself: 

Your  communication  of  May  18th  was  duly  received,  together 
with  a  copy  of  the  constitution  of  the  G.  Lod«-e  of  the  U.  S., 


4:72  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

also  a  vote  of  thanks  presented  to  D.  G.  M.  Pearce  in  open  Grand 
Lodge ;  the  book  containing  the  Patriarchal  Degrees,  and  the 
printed  minutes  of  the  late  sessions  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S. 
The  last  we  very  much  approve  the  form  of,  and  hope  they  will 
be  continued  in  the  same  style.  We  have  distributed  one  copy 
to  each  lodge.  The  second  Monday  in  May  being  our  annual 
election,  the  following  Grand  Officers  were  duly  elected :  Samuel 
Pryor,  G.  M.;  Win.  H.  Mathews,  D.  G.  M.;  John  G.  Potts,  G. 
Warden;  Thomas  Small,  G.  Sec.;  Joseph  E.  Manuel,  G.  Treas.; 
who  were  duly  installed  into  their  respective  offices.  We  perceive- 
by  your  communication,  that  you  have  decided  to  adhere  to  the 
old  signs  as  well  as  to  the  new  ones.  We  would  be  obliged  if 
you  would  cause  us  to  be  instructed  in  them.  Do  you  intend  to 
give  the  old  ones  first  or  last  ?  Do  you  enter  with  one,  or  both ; 
if  with  one,  indicate  which  ?  We  have  not  acted  on  them  yet. 
We  wish  as  much  uniformity  as  possible.  A  resolution  passed 
in  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  U.  S.  granting  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pa.  a  new 
charter,  in  lieu  of  the  one  delivered  to  you  by  our  Grand  Eepre- 
sentative.  One  of  our  brethren,  P.  G.  Wampole,  has  volunteered 
to  engross  it  for  the  Grand  Lodge,  free  of  expense,  in  handsome 
style  of  penmanship ;  we  will  thank  you  for  the  form  of  the 
charter,  that  the  brother's  generous  offer  may  be  accepted,  and 
that  it  may  be  returned  to  you  for  the  proper  signature  and  at- 
testation. Our  portion  of  the  current  expenses  of  the  last  year 
has  been  placed  to  your  credit,  and  is  payable  to  your  order. 
We  were  much  gratified  in  reading  that  part  of  the  printed  com- 
munication relative  to  the  visit  and  reception  of  the  Grand  Sire 
in  England.  The  spirit  of  liberality  and  good  feeling  evinced 
by  the  English  lodges,  we  trust  will  be  reciprocated  in  its  fullest 
extent  by  the  lodges  in  the  United  States.  We  tender  to  your- 
self and  the  brethren  in  Maryland  our  best  wishes  for  their  health 
and  prosperity.  We  remain  yours  in  the  bonds  of  F.  L.  and  T_ 

In  transmitting  the  annual  report  for  the  year  ending  May, 
1828,  G.  Secretary  Small  reports  five  subordinate  lodges  at  work,, 
to  writ :  Pennsylvania,  'No.  1,  with  267  members ;  Washington, 
No.  2,  with  130  members ;  Morning  Star,  No.  4,  with  110  mem- 
bers ;  Franklin,  No.  5,  with  30  members ;  Gen.  Marion,  No.  6, 
writh  31  members  ;  making  in  all  568.  Revenue,  $2410.76.  Ini- 
tiated, 250.  He  remarks  that  on  27th  August  the  G.  Lodge 
granted  a  warrant,  upon  application,  for  a  degree  lodge,  for  con- 
ferring the  subordinate  degrees  and  the  P.  O.  degrees.  This 
experiment,  after  eight  months'  trial,  answered  the  most  sanguine 
expectations.  He  congratulates  the  Order  upon  the  prosperity 
of  the  new  lodges,  as  well  as  the  whole  Order  in  the  State.  He 


THE    GRAND  LODGE    OF    PENNSYLVANIA.  473 

complains  that  notice  and  copy  of  the  amendments  proposed  to 
the  constitution,  by  the  G.  Lodge  of  New  York,  was  not  sent  to 
them,  and  expresses  a  concurrence  of  opinion  with  that  G.  body, 
that  "  the  constitution  needs  revising  and  amending."  The 
wishes  of  the  G.  L.  of  Pa.  are  also  communicated  touching  the 
proper  amendments  to  the  constitution,  a  copy  of  which  is 
sent.  They  also  recommend  the  appointment  of  a  competent 
G.  Secretary  of  the  G.  L.  of  the  U.  S.,  which  office  is  now  vacant, 
and  the  payment  to  him  of  such  compensation  as  may  command 
a  brother  adequate  to  the  position. 

At  the  end  of  the  first  decade  the  G.  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania, 
made  its  report  for  the  year  ending  May,  1829,  as  follows: 

SUBORDINATE    LODGES. 

Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  Philadelphia;  Washington  Lodge,, 
No.  2,  Philadelphia  ;  Wayne  Lodge,  No.  3,  Philadelphia ;  Morn- 
ing Star  Lodge,  No.  4,  Kensington ;  Franklin  Lodge,  No.  5, 
Philadelphia;  Gen.  Marion  Lodge,  No.  6,  Philadelphia;  Her- 
man Lodge,  No.  7,  Kensington  ;  Morning  Star  Lodge,  No.  8, 
Frankford;  Mechanics'  Lodge,  No.  9,  Pittsburgh;  Philoma- 
thean  Lodge,  No.  10,  Germantown;  Kensington  Lodge,  No.  11, 
Kensington;  Jefferson  Lodge,  No.  12,  Kensington;  Philadelphia. 
Lodge,  No.  13,  Philadelphia.  Total  membership,  1009. 

Pennsylvania  appears  to  have  set  the  example  which  has  ever 
since  been  followed,  of  making  detailed  statistical  reports  to  the 
G.  L.  of  the  U.  S.  This  good  example  has  been  greatly  improved 
by  time  and  experience,  and  has  led  to  the  present  elaborate  sta- 
tistics of  the  Order.  It  is  to  be  regretted  that  Massachusetts- 
and  New  York  appear  to  disadvantage  at  the  close  of  this  decade, 
giving  decided  indication  of  a  rapid  decline  and  suspension,  whick 
soon  overtook  them. 

ANNIVERSARIES. 

It  has  been  an  old  and  revered  custom  of  established  institu- 
tions, which  have  more  or  less  experienced  severe  ordeals  inci- 
dent to  their  career,  to  pause  at  the  annual  recurrence  of  their 
birth-day,  to  review  the  past,  to  husband  the  treasures  of  knowl- 
edge which  it  supplies,  and  to  apply  them  wisely,  as  the  rapid 
transition  of  the  old  year  into  the  new  one  passes  it  onward  to 
the  great  future.  No  period  is  more  full  of  interest  in  the 


474  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

chapter  of  human  life.  Beside  the  season  of  reflection  and  grave 
thought  which  it  summons,  it  encourages  recreation  and  refresh- 
ment around  the  generous  board,  where  friends  mingle  in  sym- 
pathetic union.  Such  a  practice  prevails  the  world  over,  and 
commends  itself  to  the  good  and  moral  of  all  communities.  The 
journal  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  records  the  fact 
that  the  anniversary  of  the  Order  in  that  jurisdiction,  26th  De- 
cember, was  observed  during  the  first  decade,  sometimes  by  a  gen- 
eral celebration,  sometimes  in  a  social  way  by  a  public  dinner, 
sometimes  by  public  addresses,  or  by  lodge  festivals  and  enter- 
tainments. At  the  meeting  of  the  G.  Lodge  of  Oct.  27th, 
1828,  a  petition  was  received  from  Bros.  Geo.  McFarlane,  James 
Boon,  James  McMullin,  T.  Y.  Blakemore,  L.  O'Connor,  and  An- 
drew Anderson,  asking  that  a  general  procession  of  the  lodges 
might  take  place  on  the  next  anniversary,  26th  December  next. 
This  application  was  approved,  and  a  special  committee  ap- 
pointed to  carry  the  same  into  effect.  Subsequently  the  subor- 
dinate lodges  were  invited  to  co-operate,  and  a  committee  com- 
bining the  Grand  and  subordinate  lodges  was  appointed,  to  which 
all  details  were  referred.  Invitations  were  extended  to  Grand 
Sire  Wildey  and  to  the  Grand  Masters  of  the  several  Grand 
Lodges  of  the  Union. 

The  celebration  was  accordingly  held  on  the  26th  December, 
1828,  and  proved  to  be  a  decided  success.  The  address  delivered 
on  the  occasion,  which  gave  general  satisfaction,  was  by  the  noted 
T.  P.  McMahon,  who  figured  so  unfavorably  in  the  memorable 
conflict  between  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  State  and  Pennsylvania 
Lodge,  No.  1.  The  G.  Lodge,  in  rendering  its  thanks  to  the 
various  committees  for  the  occasion,  to  the  clergymen,  and  to  the 
orator  of  the  day,  requested  a  copy  of  the  address  of  Bro. 
McMahon  for  publication,  but  it  was  never  received  or  published. 
The  experience  of  this  celebration,  it  appears,  led  to  a  change  in 
the  anniversary.  It  was  by  common  consent  deemed  appropri- 
ate that  the  26th  December,  the  anniversary  of  the  institution 
of  Pennsylvania  Lodge,  No.  1,  by  Bros.  Upton,  Robinson,  and 
others,  should  be  changed,  and  that  June  27th  should  be  substi- 
tuted as  the  more  appropriate  day,  the  last  named  day  being 
the  anniversary  of  the  institution  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Pa. 

THE    NEW    HALL    ON    SOUTH    FIFTH    STREET. 

The  Order  having  outgrown  its  accommodations  in  the  city 
•of  Philadelphia,  took  measures,  early  in  1829,  to  provide  more 


THE   GRAND    LODGK   OP   PENNSYLVANIA.  475 

appropriate  and  commodious  quarters.  The  discussion  and  in- 
terchange of  opinions  among  the  members  commenced  in  the 
lodges,  and  ultimately  found  its  way  into  the  Grand  Lodge. 
After  the  suggestion  of  several  schemes,  and  the  examination  of 
various  plans  and  projects,  the  subject  was  referred  by  the  G. 
Lodge  to  a  committee,  which  reported  at  an  adjourned  meeting, 
held  April  30th,  1829. 

The  committee  on  building  submitted  the  following  : 

We,  your  committee,  appointed  to  make  a  definite  contract 
with  Mr.  James  McMurtrie  for  the  erection  of  a  hall,  beg  leave 
to  report  that  we  have  contracted  definitely  with  Mr.  McMurtrie, 
upon  the  following  terms :  Mr.  McMurtrie  agrees  to  erect,  on 
his  own  lot,  in  Fifth  Street  near  Walnut,  a  hall,  in  front  or 
breadth  35  feet,  or  (in  case  he  can  purchase  the  right  of  an  alley 
adjoining  on  the  north,  for  which  he  is  now  in  treaty,)  38  feet, 
and  extending  in  length  or  depth  75  feet ;  the  building  to  be  four 
stories  high,  with  an  elevation  of  54:  or  56  feet.  The  whole  of 
the  2d,  3d  and  4th  stories  shall  be  under  the  direction  of  a  com- 
mittee of  suitable  trustees,  to  be  appointed  by  the  Grand  Lodge, 
and  shall  be  finished  in  such  manner  as  the  said  committee  may 
direct,  for  the  more  perfect  accommodation  of  the  lodges  which 
may  hereafter  meet  therein.  The  G.  Lodge  to  have  the  use  of 
the  large  concert  room  on  the  first  floor  to  meet  in  upon  any 
public  occasion,  when  not  otherwise  engaged.  The  hall  shall  be 
called  by  any  name  the  G.  Lodge  may  be  pleased  to  adopt,  and 
the  corner-stone  laid  under  their  superintendence,  and  with  any 
-ceremonies  they  may  choose  to  perform,  and  the  building,  when 
completed,  dedicated  by  the  G.  Lodge.  Mr.  McMurtrie  also 
agrees  that  in  case  any  of  the  lodges  have  funds  which  they  wish 
to  invest,  to  take  $2000  at  six  per  cent.,  and  give  them  a  mortgage 
on  the  building  for  the  amount.  Your  committee  have  agreed 
to  pay  for  the  same  the  annual  rent  of  six  hundred  dollars,  pay- 
able quarterly,  and  to  take  a  lease  for years,  with  the  privi- 
lege of  extending  the  same  5  years  more. 

The  time  appears  to  have  come  when,  by  almost  the  unani- 
mous voice  of  a  large  portion  of  the  Order,  some  place  seems  to 
be  required  for  their  use  more  spacious  and  convenient  than  the 
one  they  now  meet  in.  The  subordinate  lodges  which  meet  in 
this  place  have  generally  expressed  such  a  desire,  by  the  appoint- 
ment of  committees  for  the  purpose  of  making  inquiry  on  the 
subject,  and  your  committee  believe  that  their  views  and  interests 
will  be  fully  promoted  and  best  protected  by  the  definite  contract 
now  respectfully  submitted.  John  Pearce,  Anson  Jones,  Sarri- 
iiel  Pryor,  John  H.  Campbell,  William  Weir. 

A  motion  was  made  that  the  proposals  specified  be  approved, 
which  was  decided  in  the  affirmative,  and  the  yeas  and  nays 


476  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

ordered  to  bo  inserted  on  the  minutes,  as  follows :  Yeas — Bros, 
Potts,  Pearce,  Campbell,  Jones,  Douglass,  Buckman,  Weirr 
Brown,  Oakford,  McFarlane,  Blakemore,  Boileau,  Hathaway  and 
Small, — 14.  Nays — Bros.  Manuel,  Wright,  Boon,  Bartle,  Post- 
hill, — 5.  On  motion  it  was  "  Resolved,  that  the  above  report  be 
placed  in  the  hands  of  the  Host  for  one  week,  and  that  it  be 
handed  by  him  to  each  of  the  lodges  meeting  in  this  hall,  to  be 
read  therein  for  their  information,  and  that  at  the  expiration  of 
the  week  it  be  returned  to  the  G.  Secretary."  On  motion,  it  was 
also  "  Resolved,  that  the  G.  Master  nominate  five  brothers,  who 
shall  be  approved  by  this  G.  Lodge,  to  act  as  trustees,  to  super- 
intend the  building,  and  furnish  such  information  to  the  architect 
as  may  be  necessary."  The  G.  Master  made  the  following  nom- 
inations, which  were  unanimously  approved  by  the  G.  Lodge,. 
viz  :  John  G.  Potts,  Anson  Jones,  John  Pearce,  Wm.  Weir,  and 
Samuel  Pryor. 

This  proceeding  having  been  sanctioned  by  a  majority  of  the 
lodges  meeting  in  the  hall,  was  carried  into  effect,  according  to 
the  provisions  of  the  contract  it  authorized.  For  the  purpose  of 
fitting  up  and  furnishing  the  building,  the  G.  Lodge  authorized 
the  trustees  to  borrow  a  sum  not  exceeding  $2500,  in  shares  of 
capital  stock  to  be  issued  in  its  corporate  name  of  not  less  than 
$50.00  each,  at  6  per  cent.,  payable  semi-annually,  upon  such 
conditions  as  the  trustees  might  deem  fit  to  adopt,  pledging  75 
per  cent,  of  the  revenue  of  the  G.  Lodge  for  the  payment  of  the 
principal  and  interest  of  the  loan,  and  directing  the  said  trustees 
to  devise  a  system  of  finance  adequate  to  the  object  contemplated. 
This  loan  was  subsequently  increased  to  $4000.  The  stock  was 
disposed  of,  the  new  hall  was  finished  and  furnished  ready  for  the 
use  and  occupation  of  the  Grand  and  subordinate  lodges.  At 
the  meeting  of  the  G.  Lodge  held  March  22d,  1830,  the  following 
brethren  were  appointed  a  committee  of  arrangements  for  dedi- 
cating the  new  hall,  viz :  Anson  Jones,  John  Pearce,  Joseph 
Fontayne,  Joseph  Cobb,  W.  J.  A.  Birkey.  The  dedication  took 
place  under  favorable  circumstances,  Tuesday,  May  18,  1830. 
The  new  hall  was  immediately  thereafter  occupied  by  the  Grand 
and  subordinate  lodges.  Incidental  to  the  ceremony  of  dedica- 
tion a  public  dinner  was  given,  of  which  a  large  number  of  the 
Grand  Officers  and  brothers  partook.  On  Monday,  May  24th, 
1830,  the  G.  Lodge  held  its  first  meeting  in  the  hall,  South  Fifth 


ODD    FELLOWS'    HALL,   SOUTH    FIFTH   ST.,    NEAR   WALNUT   ST., 
PHILADELPHIA,   183O. 


THE   GRAND    LODGE    OF   PENNSYLVANIA.  477 

Street,  below  Walnut.  At  a  session  of  the  G.  Lodge,  held  Oct. 
25th,  1830,  proper  steps  were  taken  by  the  Grand  Lodge  to 
provide  a  detailed  record  of  the  ceremony  of  dedication  for  pres- 
ervation, and  to  have  the  same  framed.  The  subject  was  referred 
to  P.  G.'s  Wright  and  Pry  or.  The  following  is  a  copy  of  the 
record  of  dedication,  which  was  transcribed  on  parchment  in 
good  style  of  penmanship,  and  hung  in  the  hall,  South  Fifth 
Street,  during  its  occupancy  by  the  Order.  It  is  now  preserved 
among  the  historical  records  of  the  Order,  in  the  office  of  the  G. 
Secretary. 

INDEPENDENT   ORDER    OF    ODD    FELLOWS    OF    PENNSYLVANIA. 

This  Record  witnesseth;  That  on  Tuesday,  the  18th  day 
•of  May,  Anno  Domini  1830,  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania 
of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  having  assembled  with  the  members  of  the 
Order  in  general,  for  the  especial  purpose,  THIS  HALL,  erected 
on  South  Fifth  Street,  near  Walnut,  Philadelphia,  was,  in  the 
presence  of  us  whose  names  are  hereunto  subscribed,  duly  set 
apart  and  dedicated  to  the  great  purposes  of  Odd  Fellowship, 
Friendship,  Love  and  Truth,  and  to  the  diffusion  of  Benevolence 
and  Charity,  in  the  fullest  extent,  to  all  its  worthy  members. 

This  interesting  paper  was  signed  by  G.  M.  Potts  and  his 
•G.  Officers,  by  Thomas  Wildey,  G.  S.,  and  the  majority  of  the 
officers  of  the  G.  L.  IT.  S.,  by  all  the  leaders  in  Pennsylvania, 
.and  by  many  distinguished  visitors.  A  poetical  address  by  Bro. 
L.  W.  Ryckman  was  delivered  at  the  new  hall,  South  Fifth 
Street,  Philadelphia,  May  18th,  1830,  but  the  plan  of  this  work 
will  not  allow  its  publication. 

The  history  of  the  Order  in  Pennsylvania  gives  rise  to  many 
reflections,  not  the  least  of  which  is,  that  the  brothers  of  that 
jurisdiction  have  prouder  claims  to  personal  merit  than  those  of 
any  other  in  America.  Maryland  had  Wildey,  the  matchless 
enthusiast  and  wonder-worker ;  Entwisle,  the  genius  and  organ- 
izer ;  Welch,  the  prudent  and  staid ;  and  Marley  and  Mathiot, 
the  young  Americans,  the  latter  a  man  of  rare  promise  and  use- 
fulness, to  form  a  band  which,  like  that  of  the  Tenth  Legion  of 
Caesar,  was  well-nigh  invincible.  But  more  than  this,  they 
added  organization  to  personal  effort,  and  the  fealty  of  other 
States  to  increase  the  interest  and  promote  the  enterprise.  Wil- 
dey himself  w^as  a  host,  and  his  personal  efforts  were  alone  suffi- 
cient to  account  for  the  success  in  Maryland. 


478  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

But  in  Pennsylvania  the  facts  were  otherwise.  Wildey  in- 
deed sowed  the  seeds,  but  they  fell  in  good  soil,  and  needed  no 
foreign  immigration  or  labor  to  cause  them  to  spring  up  and  bear 
abundant  fruit.  The  material  which  composed  its  first  lodges* 
was  a  power  in  itself.  As  lodge  after  lodge  was  instituted  and 
members  came  flocking  in,  the  old  landmarks  of  self-government 
were  neglected  for  a  better  system.  Pennsylvania  Lodge  alone, 
representing  the  old  element,  was  refractory,  and  adhered  to 
the  traditions  of  ancient  usage.  Her  membership  was  yet 
wedded  to  a  personal  government,  and  was  hard  to  bring  in 
under  the  safe  rule  of  subordination  to  superior  authority. 

But  this  feeling  ended  where  it  began,  and  took  no  hold  upon 
the  new  membership.  Reverence  for  law  and  faith  in  systematic 
effort  was  the  ruling  passion  of  the  first  decade,  as  it  has  been  the 
bulwark  of  the  Order  in  that  State  down  to  the  present  hour.  For- 
tunately for  those  brethren,  as  they  had  no  man  as  a  rallying  point, 
they  chose  the  better  part  of  ruling  by  the  collected  wisdom  of 
the  whole.  Hence  the  Grand  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  was 
organized  by  good  and  true  men,  whose  object  from  the  first  was 
to  evoke  order  from  confusion,  and  erect  an  establishment  which,, 
by  its  own  vigor,  would  not  only  command  respect  and  obedi- 
ence, but  form  the  potent  center  about  which  the  whole  scheme 
should  harmoniously  revolve.  With  what  admiration  do  we 
witness  the  proceedings  of  that  infant  body,  when  Pennsylvania 
Lodge,  No.  1,  its  darling  first-born,  defied  its  authority !  It  did 
not  matter  that  the  Order  was  yet  weak  and  the  system  new  and 
untried,  that  the  sitting  Grand  Master  was  a  member  of  the 
offending  lodge,  that  McMahon?  the  favorite  of  the  subordinate, 
was  a  man  of  promise.  None  of  these  things  moved  them ;  the 
law  was  the  master  and  the  king,  and  before  its  majesty  they 
not  only  bowed  themselves,  but  forced  every  other  knee  to  bend. 
With  rare  calmness  they  used  every  fraternal  art  to  mend  the 
breach ;  but  when  every  effort  failed,  how  firmly  and  with  what  dig- 
nity did  the  Grand  Lodge  depose  the  offender  and  assert  the  prerog- 
atives of  a  supreme  body !  It  is  of  such  stuff  that  men,  and  the 
strongest  men,  are  made.  The  love  and  reverence  for  Wildey  was 
also  profound  among  them,  and  none  went  farther  to  do  him  honor ; 
but  when  he  appeared  in  the  arena  as  the  defender  of  the  sinning 
lodge,  the  whole  Grand  Lodge  was  roused  to  indignation.  The 
Grand  Sire  himself  fell  before  the  majesty  of  the  law,  and  the 


ODD    FELLOWS'  HALL,  SIXTH  AND  CRESSON  STS.,  PHILADELPHIA,  1846. 


THE    GRAND    LODGE    OF    PENNSYLVANIA. 

Grand  Lodge  of  Pennsylvania  had  the  honor  of  bringing  him, 
and  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  itself,  to  the  observ- 
ance of  written  law ;  thus  setting  the  first  example  of  that  con- 
stitutional government  which  has  made  Odd  Fellowship  the  fore- 
most secular  institution  of  the  kind  of  its  day. 

Pennsylvania  has  the  glory  of  having  stood  alone  from  the 
first.  To  her  we  owe  Grand  Lodge  reports,  Degree  Lodges,  and 
many  fundamental  elements,  without  which  the  working  of  the 
great  plan  might  have  been  an  inglorious  failure.  It  was  her 
example  and  influence  which  gave  the  Order  power  and  fame, 
both  within  its  portals  and  over  the  whole  country.  But  great 
names  are  not  wanting  in  her  wonderful  history.  What  names 
are  more  deeply  engraven  on  the  Order  than  those  of  Pearce,  of 
Small,  of  Perkins,  of  Hopkins,  of  Kneass,  those  grand  contempo- 
raries of  Wildey,  or  of  those  later  names  known  and  loved  in  all 
the  large  household  of  Odd  Fellowship  ?  Need  we  in  such  con- 
nection refer  to  Nicholson,  Stokes,  Lamberton,  Simpson,  Curtis, 
Hickok,  and  many  others,  who  in  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United 
States  have  linked  themselves  and  that  great  jurisdiction  to  im- 
perishable fame  ? 

Every  Odd  Fellow's  heart  is  moved  at  the  spectacle  of  the 
royal  procession  of  the  multitude  of  lodges  and  members  in  Penn- 
sylvania, who  with  even  steps  and  serried  ranks,  file  on  file,  bat- 
talion on  battalion,  carry  the  banner  of  Odd  Fellowship  at  the 
head  of  the  mighty  columns  of  American  Fraternity.  As  the 
crowned  Queen  of  the  Order,  may  she  reign  forever,  by  the  un- 
disputed title  of  numbers,  benevolence,  and  a  mutual  relief  so> 
great  as  to  outvalue  the  richest  gem  in  a  monarch's  diadern ! 


CHAPTER   XIX. 

THE    DISTRICT    OF    COLUMBIA. 

The  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  was  organized  in  1825, 
having  for  its  basis  four  Grand  Lodges  only.  The  Order  had 
taken  organic  form  as  a  national  institution,  and  was  nominally 
in  occupation  of  the  whole  area  represented  by  its  name.  Yet 
but  little  actual  progress  had  been  made  outside  of  Maryland  and 
Pennsylvania.  It  numbered  in  all  only  nine  subordinate  lodges, 
in  February,  1825,  when  the  Supreme  Body  had  its  first  meeting. 
In  the  next  year  the  subordinates  had  reached  the  number  of 
twelve,  and  in  1827  were  but  fourteen.  This  was  the  condition 
of  affairs  until  near  the  close  of  that  year.  Wildey  made  his  visit 
to  England  in  1826,  and  vitalized  the  movement  by  obtaining  a 
new  charter  from  the  Manchester  Unity.  But  after  all,  no  imme- 
diate effect  had  followed.  After  an  interval,  in  which  the  G. 
Lodge  had  simply  a  doubtful  existence,  and  could  scarcely  sus- 
tain a  feeble  life,  it  was  called  upon  to  make  its  first  effort  to 
extend  its  authority  to  new  territory.  On  November  12th,  1827, 
that  body  met  in  special  session,  and  granted  a  charter  to  Thomas 
M.  Abbett,  Robert  Boyd,  John  Cragg,  Thomas  Smith  and  Samuel 
Knapp,  for  a  lodge  to  be  located  at  Washington,  District  of  Co- 
lumbia, "  to  be  hailed  as  Central  Lodge,  No.  1,  I.  O.  Fellows." 
Provision  was  made  for  the  institution  on  the  26th  day  of  the 
same  month,  and  Grand  Sire  Wildey  was  deputed  to  perform 
that  ceremony.  On  that  day  he  visited  Washington,  accompa- 
nied by  Thomas  Scotchburn,  Grand  Master  of  Maryland,  Past 
Grands  Richard  Marley,  John  Boyd,  John  J.  Roach,  Thos.  Char- 
ters, Daniel  Weaver,  and  brothers  Robert  Gott  and  others.  They 
met  the  petitioners  in  the  evening  at  Milburn's  Tavern,  where  a 
room  had  been  prepared,  and  formally  opened  Central  Lodge.  As 
soon  as  the  organization  was  completed,  the  visitors  were  gratified 
to  find  that  ten  persons  had  applied  for  membership.  The  appli- 
cations were  immediately  considered  and  the  candidates  elected. 
They  were  then  admitted  and  initiated.  These  first  initiates  were 

(480) 


THE    DISTRICT   OF    COLUMBIA.  481 

Arthur  Mclntyre,  John  "Wells,  Jr.,  George  D.  Spencer,  George 
M.  Davis,  Thomas  Stelle,  John  N.  Moulder,  John  Douglas,  John 
Elvin,  B.  Hurley,  and  Milburn,  the  host.  Brother  John  Farrar 
was  admitted  by  card.  It  seems  that  this  occurred  before  the 
officers  were  elected.  That  important  business  was  next  per- 
formed, and  resulted  in  the  election  of  Thomas  M.  Abbett,  Noble 
Grand ;  Thomas  Smith,  Vice  Grand,  and  John  N.  Moulder,  Sec- 
retary. The  subordinate  positions  were  filled  as  follows :  Robert 
Boyd,  "Warden ;  George  M.  Davis,  R.  S.  to  E".  G.;  George  D. 
Spencer,  R.  S.  to  K  G.;  Thomas  Stelle,  Conductor ;  B.  Hurley, 
R.  S.  S.;  Arthur  Mclntyre,  R.  S.  S.,  and  John  "Wells,  Guardian. 
All  of  these  officers  were  duly  installed  by  Grand  Sire  Wildey, 
who,  afrthe  close  of  the  ceremonies,  delivered  an  appropriate  and 
impressive  address,  which  elicited  an  eloquent  response  from 
Bro.  Samuel  Knapp,  and  a  unanimous  vote  of  thanks  from  the 
brethren. 

The  lodge  was  thus  launched  on  its  mission  of  benevolence, 
and  continued  to  hold  regular  weekly  sessions.  The  first  ques- 
tion that  was  mooted  outside  of  routine  business,  was  the  neces- 
sity of  procuring  a  more  suitable  place  of  meeting,  which  resulted 
in  the  renting  of  two  rooms  in  the  City  Hall,  which  were  fitted 
up  for  the  purpose.  The  lodge  occupied  this  place  at  the  first 
meeting  in  January,  1828,  The  business  transacted  in  the  first 
decade  was  strictly  that  of  the  ordinary  work  of  a  lodge,  with  no 
striking  incident  worthy  of  mention.  As  early  as  the  15th  of 
January,  1828,  a  committee  was  appointed  to  inquire  into  the 
expediency  of  revising  the  ceremony  of  initiation.  On  the  22d  of 
January,  1828,  Grand  Sire  Wildey  transmitted  a  vote  of  thanks 
by  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States  to  Thomas  M.  Abbett, 
N.  G.,  for  his  energy  in  the  advancement  of  the  Order,  which 
was  responded  to  by  a  grateful  resolution  on  the  part  of  the 
lodge.  On  the  16th  of  September,  certain  changes  made  by 
Pennsylvania  in  the  work  were  adopted.  The  first  loss  of  a 
member  occurred  in  the  latter  part  of  October,  1828,  by  the  de- 
cease of  Bro.  George  Walker;  the  brothers,  in  regalia,  attended 
his  remains  to  the  cemetery  and  interred  them  with  funeral  hon- 
ors. In  this  sad  office  they  were  joined  by  the  brothers  of  George- 
town Lodge.  The  funeral  took  place  on  Sunday,  and  this  first 
public  procession  of  the  Order  attracted  general  notice,  and 
the  subject  of  favorable  comments. 
31 


482  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

Starting  from  the  second  night  of  the  meeting  of  the  lodge,, 
the  following  appear  to  have  been  received  and  initiated ;  Benj. 
L.  Beall,  John  Eddis,  Richard  Barry,  John  Carothers,  Solomon 
Drew,  James  Green,  John  N.  Alford,  George  Tennison,  Y.  Car- 
ter, L.  S.  Tsehefely,  John  Foulkes,  Wm.  Serrin,  Thos.  Sandiford, 
Thos.  Wilson,  Wm.  McDonald,  Chas.  W.  Boteler,  Wm.  E.  Spauld- 
ing,  J.  P.  Fonde,  Wm.  Langton,  Benj.  O.  Tyler,  Joel  Downer, 
John  Wilson,  Philip  Hines,  A.  K.  Arnold,  John  M.  Clohey,  Geo. 
W.  Eay,  Chas.  Irvin,  Geo.  Walker,  Thos.  Conner,  J.  G.  Willyss, 
Wm.  H.  Mauro,  Wm.  Cooke,  Jr.,  Wm.  Cooper,  James  Crawford, 
Geo.  Umbangh,  Uriah  Maddox,  B.  Hurley,  H.  Maddox,  Jacob 
Kline,  John  A.  Brightwell,  W.  W.  Key  worth,  Richard  Eno,  Jos. 
Beardsley  and  E.  T.  Washington.  From  the  names  here?  given 
it  may  be  inferred  that  the  personnel  of  the  lodge  was  good,  in- 
cluding members  of  nearly  every  business  pursuit,  and  affording 
a  fair  representation  of  the  worth  and  intelligence  of  an  assembly 
of  American  citizens. 

Thirteen  months  subsequently  to  the  inauguration  of  Central 
Lodge,  !N"o.  1,  several  members  withdrew  with  a  view  to  the  es- 
tablishment of  a  lodge  in  Georgetown,  to  be  known  as  George- 
town Lodge,  No.  2.  For  this  purpose  they  addressed  a  petition 
to  the  Grand  Lodge  of  the  United  States,  signed  by  Eobert  Boyd, 
John  Eddes,  Francis  King,  John  Elvin,  John  Douglas,  and  John 
Craig.  The  petition  wras  presented  to  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  on  the  15th 
of  January,  1828,  and  a  charter  was  granted.  It  was  arranged 
that  the  lodge  should  be  opened  on  the  23d  of  the  same  month, 
and  G.  S.  Wildey  was  deputized  to  perform  the  ceremony.  He 
accordingly  met  the  petitioners  on  the  evening  of  that  day  at  the 
house  of  Sedley  Woodward  in  Georgetown,  and  there  formally 
instituted  the  new  lodge.  He  was  assisted  by  N.  G.  Abbett  and 
Y.  G.  Mclntyre  of  Central  Lodge.  As  soon  as  the  organization 
was  completed,  on  the  same  evening,  James  Gettys,  John  B. 
Gray,  Levi  Washburn,  Thomas  Orme,  Henry  B.  Eobertson,  James 
Belt,  John  D.  Clark,  Southey  Parker,  Peter  Callan,  and  Sedley 
Woodward,  were  elected  and  initiated  into  the  mysteries  of  Odd 
Fellowship.  The  officers  elected  and  installed  were,  Eobert 
Boyd,  !N".  G.;  John  Douglas,  Y.  G.,  and  James  Gettys,  Secretary. 
The  subordinate  offices  were  filled  by  John  Elder,  Warden; 
Francis  King.  Conductor ;  John  Craig,  E.  S.,  and  John  B.  Gray, 
L.  S.  of  K.  G.;  and  by  John  Elvin,  E.  S.,  and  Thomas  Orme, 


THE   DISTRICT   OF    COLUMBIA.  483 

L.  S.  of  Y.  G.  Henry  B.  Robertson  was  made  R.  S.  S.  and  John 
D.  Clark,  L.  S.  S.;  Peter  Callan,  I.  G.,  and  Sedley  Woodward, 
O.  G.  The  G.  Sire  enlightened  the  brethren  by  the  delivery  of 
a  fraternal  address,  which  was  responded  to  by  a  resolution  of 
thanks  for  his  services  and  valuable  counsel. 

It  was  but  a  short  time  afterwards  that  the  following  named 
were  initiated :  John  K.  King,  Sam'l  Cunningham,  Wm.  S.  Owens, 
Thos.  Kaltzman,  Edward  B.  King,  Grafton  Powell,  Louis  F. 
Joucherez,  Jno.  F.  Goodrich,  Wm.  Brownell,  Jno.  Lewis  and 
Jno.  Price.  Of  this  lodge,  James  Gettys  was  elected  Y.  Grand 
on  the  8th  of  February,  1828,  and  N.  Grand  on  the  18th  of  April 
ensuing.  There  were  no  incidents  of  a  remarkable  nature  con- 
nected with  this  lodge  during  the  decade.  A  procession  was  at 
one  time  suggested,  but  did  not  occur,  and  an  ineffectual  effort 
was  made  in  May,  1829,  to  form  an  Encampment.  In  May,  1830, 
the  lodge  was  visited  by  Rev.  Lorenzo  Dow,  an  earnest  and 
eccentric  itinerant  preacher.  Bro.  Dow  was  a  member  of  a  lodge 
in  Albany,  New  York,  and  was  an  earnest  Odd  Fellow.  By  in- 
vitation, he  delivered  a  fine  address  upon  the  principles  and 
objects  of  the  Order.  Concord  Lodge  of  the  District  made  him 
an  honorary  member  and  gave  him  the  degrees.  Subsequently 
he  died  at  Georgetown,  and  was  buried  by  the  Order  with  ap- 
propriate honors. 

Early  in  the  autumn  of  1828  the  two  subordinate  lodges  made 
a  movement  for  a  G.  Lodge,  by  requesting  their  P.  Grands  to 
solicit  a  charter  for  that  purpose.  Thereupon,  Thos.  M.  Abbett, 
Jno.  Wells  and  Alex.  L.  Mclntyre,  of  Central  Lodge,  and  James 
Gettys,  Robert  Boyd  and  James  Ashton,  of  Georgetown  Lodge, 
met  in  Washington,  on  the  19th  September,  1828,  and  addressed 
the  following  petition  to  the  G.  L.  of  U.  S. :  "  We,  the  under- 
signed, P.  Grands  of  Central  Lodge,  No.  1,  and  Georgetown 
Lodge,  No.  2,  I.  O.  O.  F.,  in  the  District  of  Columbia,  having 
'been  authorized  by  our  respective  lodges  to  unite  in  the  formation 
of  a  G.  Lodge,  respectfully  petition  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  to  grant  us  a 
charter,  to  meet  in  the  city  of  Washington  and  transact  all  busi- 
ness pertaining  to  a  Grand  Lodge,  and  to  exercise  jurisdiction 
over  all  lodges  now  established,  or  that  maybe  established,  in  the 
District  of  Columbia,  according  to  tl;e  present  laws  and  land- 
marks of  the  institution."  This  was  signed  by  five  of  the  Past 
Grands;  Bro.  Mclntyre  having  refused  to  join  in  the  application 


484  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

because  it  did  not  require  the  proposed  G.  Lodge  to  meet  exclu- 
sively in  Washington.  P.  G.  Abbett,  who  presided,  immediately 
forwarded  the  paper  to  G.  S.  Wildey,  with  the  request  that  he 
would  attend  and  open  the  G.  Lodge.  The  petition  was  submit- 
ted to  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  on  the  28th  of  September,  1828,  and  its 
prayer  granted.  On  the  24th  of  the  ensuing  month  of  Novem- 
ber the  G.  Sire  visited  Washington,  accompanied  by  P.  G.  John 
Boyd,  the  Proxy  of  Pennsylvania ;  P.  G.  Augustus  Mathiot,  G. 
Sec.,  and  P.  G.  Jordan,  of  Maryland.  In  the  meantime  Thomas 
M.  Abbett  had  been  selected  as  G.  M.;  James  Gettys,  as  D.  G. 
M.;  Robert  'Boyd  for  G.  Warden,  and  John  Wells  for  G.  Sec. 
The  petitioners  assembled  on  the  evening  of  that  day  at  the 
rooms  of  Central  Lodge,  in  the  City  Hall,  when  the  elected  offi- 
cers were  installed,  as  well  as  those  appointed,  viz.  Francis  King, 
G.  Conductor,  and  James  Ashton,  G.  Guardian.  The  ceremony 
was  concluded  by  the  delivery  of  the  charter  to  the  G.  M.,  and 
an  impressive  address  by  G.  Sire  Wildey,  which  was  much  ap- 
plauded. 

The  next  meeting  of  the  body  was  on  the  16th  of  December, 
1828,  when  preparations  were  made  for  the  adoption  of  a  consti- 
tution and  by-laws,  and  for  providing  suitable  regalia,  a  seal  and 
other  essential  articles.  On  the  21th  of  May,  1829,  it  adopted 
the  Pennsylvania  charges  for  initiations  and  the  opening  and 
closing  of  lodges.  On  the  18th  of  October,  1829,  a  charter  was 
granted  to  Win.  Serrin,  John  N.  Moulder,  Philip  Hines,  Levi 
Washburn,  Thos.  Sandiford,  T.  Conner,  Thos.  Smith  and  John 
Wells,  for  Concord  Lodge,  No.  3,  to  be  located  in  the  first  (west- 
ernmost) ward  of  Washington  City.  This  lodge  was  opened  on 
the  29th  of  the  same  month,  at  Usher's  Tavern.  The  officers 
installed  were  John  Wells,  Jr.,  N.  G.;  Wm.  Serrin,  V.  G.;  Levi 
Washburn,  Sec.,  and  John  N.  Moulder,  Warden.  The  term  of 
the  G.  Officers  having  expired,  an  election  was  had  on  the  26th 
of  November,  1829,  which  resulted  as  follows :  James  Gettys, 
G.  M.;  John  Wells,  Jr.,  D.  G.  M.;  Henry  B.  Eobertson,  G.  War- 
den ;  Francis  King,  G.  Sec.;  and  John  Eddes,  Treas.  These 
brothers  were  duly  installed  by  G.  M.  Abbett,  who,  on  the  10th 
of  May,  1830,  was  elected  an  honorary  member  of  the  G.  Lodge ; 
he  had  previously  received  a  similar  compliment  from  Central 
Lodge. 

On  the  8th  of  November,  1830,  another  annual  election  took 
place:  James  Gettys,  G.  M.;  John  Wells,  D.  G.  M.;  and  John 


THE    DISTRICT    OF    COLUMBIA.  485 

Eddes,  were  re-elected,  with  John  B.  Gray  as  G.  W.,  and  Henry 
B.  Robertson,  Sec.  On  the  3d  of  December,  1829,  a  charter  was 
granted  for  Jonathan  Lodge,  No.  4,  to  be  located  in  Georgetown. 
It  was  instituted  on  the  21st  of  the  same  month,  at  the  house  of 
John  Douglas,  on  Bridge  Street.  The  elective  officers  installed 
were  John  Douglas,  N.  G.;  Grafton  Powell,  Y.  G.,  and  John  B. 
Gray,  Sec.  On  the  18th  of  November,  1830,  a  charter  was 
granted  to  Pocahontas  Lodge,  No.  5,  to  be  located  in  Alexandria, 
which  then  formed  a  part  of  the  District  of  Columbia,  and  on  the 
15th  of  Dec.  the  G.  Lodge  met  at  that  place  and  opened  the  lodge. 
The  officers  installed  were  John  W.  Smith,  N.  G.;  B.  F.  Spencer, 
Y.  G.;  L.  Kipkins,  Sec.,  and  Win.  Thomas,  Treas.,  upon  all  of 
whom  the  degrees  of  the  Order  were  conferred  before  the  instal- 
lation, they  having  been  but  recently  initiated  by  Washington 
Lodge.  These  brothers,  in  connection  with  Obadiah  Moss,  were 
the  petitioners  for  the  new  lodge.  Pocahontas  Lodge  was  the 
first  lodge  instituted  south  or  west  of  the  Potomac  River.  It 
seems  to  have  been  committed  to  unpopular  or  indifferent  hands, 
and  never  reached  maturity.  Like  a  hot-house  plant  transferred 
to  a  cold  and  barren  soil,  it  gave  no  sign  of  enduring  vitality,  and 
became  extinct  early  in  the  second  decade,  leaving  no  accessible 
record  of  its  acts. 

This  was  the  natural  result  of  a  too  hasty  organization,  of 
which  we  have  had  many  examples.  This  has  been  too  often  the 
case  in  this  jurisdiction,  where  zeal,  in  many  instances,  was  un- 
tempered  by  discretion.  At  an  early  period  in  the  second  decade 
this  cause  was  exhibiting  its  natural  effect;  Central  Lodge  having 
been  reduced  to  some  twenty-five  or  thirty  members,  passed  a 
resolution  at  the  close  of  1830  for  its  own  dissolution.  Concord 
Lodge  ceased  to  work  about  the  middle  of  the  year  1831.  George- 
town Lodge  suspended  business  at  the  beginning  of  1832,  and 
Jonathan  Lodge  continued  its  operations  only  three  or  four  years 
longer. 

But  on  the  10th  of  January,  1832,  a  counter  movement  began, 
A  few  of  the  most  efficient  members  of  Central  Lodge  met  on  that 
day,  and  petitioned  the  G.  Lodge  for  a  charter  to  form  a  new 
lodge,  with  the  name  and  number  of  old  Central.  This  meet- 
ing included  Bros.  Geo.  M.  Davis,  John  A.  Brightwell,  Peter 
Callan,  Geo.  D.  Spencer,  Thos.  Stelle,  John  Douglas,  Wm.  W. 
Key  worth,  John  C.  Rodgers,  Geo.  ITiribaugh  and  Uriah  Maddox. 


486  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

The  G.  Lodge  granted  the  petition  on  the  13th  of  February,  1832, 
at  the  same  time  affirming  that  it  was  a  revival  of  the  old  lodge. 
On  the  16th  of  the  same  month  the  following  officers  were  in- 
stalled: Peter  Callan,  K  G.;  E.  T.  Washington,  Y.  G.;  Thomas 
Stelle,  Sec.,  and  John  Douglas,  Treas.  Thus  resuscitated,  the 
lodge  resumed  work,  and  became  so  prosperous  as  to  be  able  to 
furnish  material  for  new  and  successful  lodges, 'which  have  never 
faltered  in  spreading  the  principles  and  doing  the  work  of  the 
Order.  These,  to  the  number  of  fifteen,  are  now  potent  and  flour- 
ishing, and  represent  at  the  capital  of  the  country  the  distinctive 
virtues  of  Friendship,  Love  and  Truth. 

In  1845  the  Order  in  the  District  concluded  to  build  a  hall 
for  its  use ;  the  board  of  trustees  appointed  by  the  lodge  to  con- 
duct the  enterprise  were  Wm.  W.  Moore,  John  G.  Robinson, 
John  Sessford,  Jos.  Beardsley,  Wm.  Lloyd,  Wm.  G.  Deale,  John 
W.  Galley,  Sam'l  Stettinius,  Washington  Lewis,  Wm.  B.  Magru- 
der,  John  L.  Pascoe  and  A.  G.  Herold.  The  brothers  had  such 
success  as  to  complete  the  building  at  a  cost  of  $25,000,  and  it 
was  occupied  by  the  Order  in  the  month  of  May,  1846.  Sev- 
eral years  afterwards  the  structure  was  enlarged  to  accommodate 
the  Encampments,  at  an  additional  cost  of  $12,000.  The  debts 
incurred  outside  of  the  Order  for  the  ground,  building  and  im- 
provements, were  paid  in  full  prior  to  the  close  of  1864.  Many 
additional  improvements  have  since  been  made,  which  have 
not  been  paid  for,  but  the  property  is  now  estimated  to  be 
worth  from  $100,000  to  $150,000.  Its  principal  owners  are 
the  G.  Lodge,  and  Central,  Washington,  Columbia  and  Beacon 
Lodges,  and  Columbia  Encampment. 

THOMAS    M.    ABBETT. 

Thomas  Middleton  Abbett,  the  son  of  Henry  and  Elizabeth 
Abbett,  was  born  in  Philadelphia,  March  21st,  1806.  His  pa- 
rents being  Quakers,  he  was  educated  at  Friends'  School  in 
his  native  city,  and  at  West-Town,  Chester  Co.,  Pa.  Soon 
after  his  majority  he  removed  to  Washington  City,  and  found 
employment  in  one  of  the  Government  departments.  Here  he 
made  the  acquaintance  of  a  daughter  of  Dr.  Appier,  of  that 
city,  a  lady  of  great  personal  attractions,  well  educated  and  a 
great  favorite  in  society.  This  lady  he  married.  Later  in  life 


THOMAS  M.  ABBETT. 


THE   DISTRICT    OF    COLUMBIA.  487 

lie  engaged  in  commercial  business  in  Lancaster  County,  Ya., 
and  was  successful,  but  the  malaria  of  that  region  was  so  detri- 
mental that  he  was  forced  to  remove  to  a  more  healthful  local- 
ity. He  therefore  disposed  of  his  business  and  removed  to  Bal- 
timore City,  where  he  became  receiving  teller  in  the  old  Citizens' 
Bank,  then  on  Baltimore  Street.  Here  he  remained  until  the 
bank  closed  its  doors  and  retired  from  business.  As  an  officer 
in  the  bank  he  was  quite  popular;  his  urbanity  and  business 
capacity  were  specially  noteworthy,  and  greatly  commended  him 
to  the  corporation  and  its  customers. 

On  leaving  he  was  chosen  Secretary  and  Treasurer  of  the 
Susquehanna  and  Tide  Water  Canal  Co.,  where  he  remained 
during  the  remainder  of  his  life.  A  capable  judge,  and  his  life- 
long friend,  P.  G.  John  H.  Barnes,  says  of  him :  "  The  mental 
endowments  of  T.  M.  Abbett  were  of  a  high  order,  and  as  an  ac- 
countant he  had  no  superior.  He  was  a  profound  thinker  and 
cogent  reasoner.  He  seldom  gave  public  utterance  to  his  views, 
but  when  he  did  speak  he  was  brief  and  to  the  point,  and  always 
carried  great  weight  with  his  audience."  In  stature  he  was 
above  the  average  height,  and  a  fine  and  commanding  presence 
had  the  added  charm  of  a  bland  and  smiling  countenance  beam- 
ing with  good  humor  and  philanthropy.  The  President  of  the 
Canal  Co.,  Hon.  Geo.  W.  Dobbin,  now  Judge  of  the  Superior 
Court  of  Baltimore,  says :  "  He  had  an  evenness  of  temper  and 
sincerity  of  manner  which  made  intercourse  with  him  always 
agreeable.  When  these  attributes  are  blended  with  strong  nat- 
ural ability  and  general  cultivation,  controlled  by  high  moral 
convictions,  we  may  well  look  for  a  noble  character.  Such  an 
expectation  was  in  his  case  not  disappointed.  He  was  an  active 
and  powerful  friend  of  public  education,  and  as  a  citizen  was 
always  at  his  post  of  duty.  His  services  as  Commissioner  of  the 
Public  Schools  were  of  the  greatest  value.  No  one  labored  more 
assiduously  to  perfect  the  system,  and  none  were  more  attentive 
to  the  duties  which  his  position  enjoined." 

Broi  Abbett  was  initiated  in  Philadelphia  by  one  of  the  early 
lodges,  and  continued  a  member  until  his  removal  from  that  city. 
Soon  afterwards  he  settled  in  Washington,  and  finding  no  lodge 
there,  undertook  the  introduction  of  the  Order  into  the  District. 
On  inquiry  he  found  four  others  of  a  like  disposition,  and  with 
them  he  obtained  a  charter  for  Central  Lodge,  as  has  been  before 


488  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

detailed.  One  of  these  was  Robert  Boyd,  a  brother  of  John 
Boyd  of  Maryland,  who  was  conspicuous  in  the  first  decade. 
Abbett  was  the  first  K  G.  in  the  new  lodge,  and  the  first  G.  M. 
of  the  G.  Lodge  of  the  District  of  Columbia.  In  these  positions  he 
laid  deep  and  strong  the  foundations  of  our  principles.  He  it 
was  who  first  gave  character  to  the  Order  in  the  new  locality, 
and  his  zeal  and  counsels  were  of  lasting  influence.  But  he 
removed  from  Washington,  as  before  stated,  to  Virginia,  and 
afterwards  to  Baltimore.  Before  leaving  the  District  he  be- 
came its  first  G.  Representative  in  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  and  served 
during  the  session  of  1829.  In  Baltimore  he  attached  himself  to 
Franklin  Lodge,  No.  2.  In  this  lodge  and  in  the  G.  Lodge  of 
Md.  he  became  at  once  a  leading  spirit.  He  had  no  taste,  and 
in  fact  no  time  for  the  duties  of  oifice,  and  uniformly  declined  all 
personal  distinctions,  but  no  member  excelled  him  in  devotion  to 
our  distinctive  principles. 

To  his  wise  counsels  and  personal  influence  are  owing  many 
great  reforms  in  the  G.  Lodge ;  notably,  in  ridding  the  body  of 
petty  controversies,  and  fixing  the  matter  of  grievances  and  trials 
on  their  present  basis.  In  1850-1851  he  represented  the  G. 
Lodge  of  Md.  in  the  G.  L.  U.  S.,  and  in  his  second  year  had  Bro. 
Joshua  Yansant  as  his  colleague.  He  stood  well  in  that  body  at 
a  time  when  it  was  full  of  able  men.  He  had  before  that  time,, 
in  1845,  drawn  up  a  petition  for  a  Degree  Lodge,  which  was 
granted,  and  that  lodge  was  organized  under  his  direction.  Re- 
fusing offices  of  emolument,  he  often  assisted  as  a  citizen  in  works 
of  benevolence.  His  services  as  a  Manager  of  the  House  of 
Refuge  were  very  valuable,  and  he  was  full  of  zeal  for  its  noble 
objects. 

His  death  was  sudden  and  after  only  a  few  days'  confinement 
to  his  house ;  it  occurred  on  the  17th  day  of  July,  1866.  He 
left  behind  him  one  son  and  four  daughters,  his  wife  having 
died  in  1848.  And  thus  another  of  the  early  pioneers  passed 
away,  but  with  a  record  second  to  none.  The  loss  was  felt  in 
a  large  circle,  and  was  deeply  mourned  by  all  who  had  been  his 
associates.  In  the  Order  the  honorable  distinction  of  being 
the  Father  of  Odd  Fellowship  in  the  District  of  Columbia  will 
be  his  lasting  monument ;  and  so  long  as  that  organization  shall 
continue,  his  memory  will  be  held  as  a  sacred  memorial  of  its 
birthday  anniversary.  He  lies  with  kindred  dust  in  Greenmount 


THE    DISTRICT   OF    COLUMBIA.  4:89' 

Cemetery,  where  so  many  of  our  famous  dead  have  found  the 
rest  of  the  good  after  the  weary  toils  of  a  well-spent  life.  Requi- 
escat  in  pace. 

JAMES    GETTYS. 

James  Gettys  was  second  only  to  Abbett  in  his  influence  in 
the  District  of  Columbia,  His  early  history  is  unknown.  We 
first  hear  of  him  in  1827,  as  the  agent  for  a  large  brewery  located 
in  Washington.  His  business  required  him  to  travel  in  the  inter- 
ests of  his  firm,  and  when  he  visited  Baltimore  he  naturally  made 
the  acquaintance  of  Wildey  and  John  Boyd,  who  became  his  cus- 
tomers. When  Abbett  established  Odd  Fellowship  in  the  Dis- 
trict it  soon  came  to  the  knowledge  of  Gettys.  His  residence 
being  Georgetown,  he  was  initiated  into  Georgetown  Lodge,  No. 
2,  on  the  occasion  of  its  institution.  On  the  same  night  he  was 
installed  as  Secretary,  and  at  once  took  the  chief  place  as  leader. 
On  the  institution  of  a  G.  Lodge  he  was  made  the  first  D.  G.  M.r 
and  at  the  next  election  became  G.  M.  Such  was  the  estimate 
of  the  value  of  his  services  as  G.  M.  that  he  was  continued  in  that 
office  for  four  successive  terms.  He  was  the  second  Rep.  of  the 
District  in  the  G.  L.  U.  S.,  and  served  for  1830-1831  and  1833. 
In  that  body  he  took  part  in  every  important  movement,  and  was- 
a  valuable  member.  A  glance  at  the  journal  of  those  years  will 
present  him  in  a  very  favorable  light. 

It  was  during  his  term,  in  1833,  that  the  second  term  of 
G.  M.  Wildey  expired.  We  of  this  day  can  scarcely  con- 
ceive of  the  difficulty  of  finding  a  successor  for  the  founder. 
No  man  in  the  Order  could  fill  his  place  as  he  had  filled  it,, 
nor  was  it  necessary  that  such  an  one  should  be  chosen.  Per- 
sonal government  and  personal  influence  were  about  to  be  sup- 
planted by  law  and  associated  effort.  It  was  then  only  neces- 
sary that  the  successor  should  be  a  lover  of  the  law  arid  a 
faithful  administrator.  These  qualifications  were  conspicuous 
in  Gettys,  and  he  was  unanimously  chosen  as  the  second  G. 
Sire.  The  election  occurred  on  the  18th  of  March,  1833.  On 
the  3d  of  September  following,  Wildey  delivered  his  farewell 
address  and  retired,  and  James  Gettys  was  duly  installed  as 
the  first  Odd  Fellow  in  America.  His  officers  were  strong 
men,  Samuel  Pryor  having  been  chosen  as  G.  Sec.,  and  Augustus 
Mathiot  G.  Treas.  His  term  of  service  discloses  nothing  of  spe- 


490  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

•cial  interest,  except  as  showing  the  working  of  the  body  under 
the  constitution  and  by-laws  of  1833,  which  had  been  framed  by 
the  new  men  who  had  now  taken  charge  of  the  enterprise.  It 
was  entirely  satisfactory,  and  met  the  wishes  of  the  body 
over  which  he  presided.  In  1836  he  again  appeared  as  a  G. 
Representative.  Here  he  was  prominent  in  aiding  the  settle- 
ment of  the  difficulty  then  disturbing  the  harmony  of  the  Order 
in  New  York,  and  was  very  active  in  the  business  of  the  session. 
At  this  point  he  drops  from  that  record. 

In  the  District  he  was  always  an  active  Odd  Fellow.  He 
with  Abbett  gave  tone  to  the  first  movements,  and  on  Abbett's 
removal  he  became  the  leader  of  the  Order.  He  was  well  known 
to  the  public  in  mercantile  life  as  a  magistrate,  a  conveyancer, 
and  general  agent,  and  exerted  all  his  influence  for  our  institu- 
tion. He  was  also  connected  with  the  City  Council  and  Levy 
Court,  but  never  allowed  any  position  to  cause  him  to  neglect  his 
brethren.  Some  five  or  six  years  before  his  death,  on  the  decline 
of  his  lodge,  he  deposited  his  card  in  one  of  the  Washington 
lodges.  P.  G.  S.  Moore  says  of  him  :  "  It  is  only  his  former  asso- 
ciates in  the  G.  L.  U.  S.  and  the  senior  brethren  of  the  District 
who  can  appreciate  the  extent  of  his  services  and  do  full  justice 
to  his  memory.  The  latter  especially  can  bear  testimony  to  his 
unremitting  efforts  to  give  stability  to  the  institution,  as  well  in 
Washington  as  in  Georgetown  and  Alexandria,  at  which  last 
place  he  aided  to  establish  the  first  lodge  south  of  the  Potomac. 
He  died  in  the  arms  and  under  the  protection  of  the  brotherhood, 
who  paid  his  remains  appropriate  and  imposing  funeral  honors. 
The  malady  with  which  he  was  afflicted,  and  which  opened  the 
way  from  this  to  a  better  life,  was  a  pulmonary  affection." 

The  traits  of  this  brother  were  unusually  attractive ;  he  was 
affable  and  obliging  to  a  remarkable  degree,  and  generous  to  a 
fault.  He  was  master  of  the  art  of  conciliation,  and  that  potent 
weapon  was  never  placed  in  purer  hands  or  directed  by  greater 
.benevolence  and  goodness. 


SEVENTH   ST.r    WASHINGTON.    1874. 


CHAPTER    XX. 

THEORY  OF  THE  DEGREES. 

Though  round  him  numerous  tribes, 

Sworn  foes  to  Heaven's  dread  Ruler,  pitch  their  tents, 

No  wayward  doubts  or  coward  fears  appal 

The  Patriarch's  soul.  —SAMUEL  HAYES. 

Give  me  my  scallop-shell  of  quiet, 
My  staff  of  faith  to  walk  upon; 
My  scrip  of  joy,  immortal  diet; 
My  bottle  of  salvation; 
My  gown  of  glory,  (hope's  true  gage), 
And  thus  I'll  take  my  pilgrimage. 

—SIB  WALTER  RALEIGH. 

As  has  been  elsewhere  set  forth,  truth  has  always  been  taught 
In  a  mystery:  a  word  closely  connected  with  the  old  English 
Mister,  a  trade  or  craft,  the  learning  of  which  was  something 
occult  and  mysterious.  Odd  Fellowship  does  not  in  the  ordinary 
sense  seek  to  teach  truth ;  it  has  no  abstract  or  esoteric  doctrine, 
but  is  in  every  way  concrete  and  practical.  It  has  not  the  same 
root  as  Masonry,  which  undoubtedly  is  nearly  related  to  the 
ancient  mysteries.  A  system  of  that  kind  takes  the  form  of  the 
ancients,  which  had  one  method  for  the  elect  and  another  for  the 
multitude.  A  glance  at  Masonry  will  disclose  the  similarity.  Its 
lectures  and  symbols  have  a  scientific  basis.  Geometry  is  the 
science  on  which  it  is  founded,  as  architecture  is  the  art  from 
whicli  it  borrows  its  symbolic  language.  It  is  therefore  claimed 
that  "  more  than  a  superficial  knowledge  of  the  principles  of  ar- 
•chitecture  is  absolutely  essential  to  the  Mason."  Thus  we  find 
the  five  orders  of  that  art,  the  Doric,  the  Ionic,  the  Corinthian, 
the  Tuscan,  and  the  Composite,  a  part  of  its  fundamental  know- 
ledge. The  same  may  be  said  of  the  liberal  arts,  which  its  degree 
•of  Fellow  Craft  mainly  illustrates.  That  great  Masonic  author- 
ity, Mackey,  says:  "The  seven  liberal  arts  and  sciences  are 
illustrated  in  the  Fellow-Craft's  Degree.  They  are  Grammar, 
Rhetoric,  Logic,  Arithmetic,  Geometry,  Music,  and  Astronomy. 
Grammar  is  the  science  which  teaches  us  to  express  our  ideas  in 
appropriate  words,  which  we  may  afterwards  beautify  and  adorn 

(491) 


492  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

by  means  of  rhetoric  ;  while  logic  instructs  us  how  to  think  and 
reason  with  propriety,  and  to  make  language  subordinate  to- 
thought.  Arithmetic,  which  is  the  science  of  computing  by  num- 
bers, is  absolutely  essential,  not  only  to  a  thorough  knowledge  of 
all  mathematical  science,  but  also  to  a  proper  pursuit  of  our 
daily  avocations.  Geometry,  or  the  application  of  arithmetic  to 
sensible  quantities,  is  of  all  sciences  the  most  important,  since  by 
it  we  are  enabled  to  measure  and  survey  the  globe  that  we  inhabit. 
Its  principles  extend  to  other  spheres,  and,  occupied  in  the  con- 
templation and  measurement  of  the  sun,  moon  and  heavenly 
bodies,  constitute  the  science  of  astronomy ;  and  lastly,  when  our 
minds  are  filled  and  our  thoughts  enlarged  by  the  contemplation 
of  all  the  wonders  wThich  these  sciences  open  to  our  view,  music 
comes  forward,  to  soften  our  hearts  and  cultivate  our  affections 
by  its  soothing  influences.  The  preservation  of  these  arts  as  a 
part  of  the  ritual  of  the  Fellow-Craft's  Degree,  is  another  evidence 
of  the  antiquity  of  Freemasonry." 

We  fully  agree  with  the  author  that  the  ritual  of  his  Order 
proves  its  antiquity,  in  the  same  manner  that  the  absence  from  ours 
of  the  peculiar  elements  he  has  enumerated,  is  evidence 
against  its  claim  to  a  similar  antiquity.  Symbolic  Masonry,  in 
fact,  has  no  existence  but  in  the  regions  of  art  and  science. 
Every  act  has  its  scientific  symbol,  so  that  every  Mason  meets  on 
the  level  and  parts  on  the  square.  This  is  the  foundation,  but 
the  building  is  still  more  spacious.  The  edifice,  or  speculative 
Masonry,  is  so  called  to  distinguish  it  from  operative  Masonry, 
which  is  engaged  in  the  construction  of  edifices  of  stone.  "  The 
operative  Mason  works  according  to  the  designs  laid  down  for 
him  on  the  trestle-board  by  the  architect;  the  speculative  is 
guided  by  the  great  trestle-board  on  which  is  inscribed  the  re- 
vealed will  of  God,  the  Supreme  Architect  of  heaven  and  earth."1 
This  last  is  the  lesson  of  Masonry  as  now  universally  understood^ 
and  is  the  key  to  the  secrets  of  that  institution.  Odd  Fellowship 
also  claims  an  antiquity,  but  it  is  comparatively  recent,  and  has 
no  valid  claim  to  be  called  "  ancient."  It  has  no  pretensions  to 
art  or  science  in  any  way,  and  does  not  seek  the  education  of  the 
intellect.  The  reason  is  obvious.  It  is  a  select  class,  or  select 
persons  in  the  various  classes  of  mankind,  to  whom  such  know- 
ledge is  possible  or  its  types  interesting.  It  follows  that  Masonry 
does  not  invite  the  multitude  to  its  temples,  and  in  fact  invites- 


THEORY  OF  THE  DEGREES.  493 

no  man  to  its  secrets.  It  is  a  light  set  upon  an  eminence,  which 
the  worthy  and  well  qualified  may  indeed  approach,  but  no  dull 
clod  that  cannot  reflect  its  brightness  is  brought  within  its  radius. 
The  seeker  must  also  be  a  learner,  and  must  voluntarily  seek 
the  light.  FRATERNITY  indeed  is  the  bond  of  its  lodges,  but  not 
a  common  fraternity.  Mackey  says,  "  Freemasons  are  brethren, 
not  only  by  common  participation  of  the  human  nature,  but  as 
professing  the  same  faith,  as  being  jointly  engaged  in  the  same 
labors,  and  as  being  united  by  a  mutual  covenant  or  tie ;  whence 
they  are  also  called,  '  Brethren  of  the  Mystic  Tie.' J: 

To  such  as  know  Masonry,  it  is  only  necessary  to  remark  that 
the  distinction  between  the  two  institutions  is  best  shown  by 
their  terms  of  membership.  But  three  conditions  are  required 
by  Odd  Fellowship :  belief  in  the  existence  of  God,  good  health, 
and  good  moral  character.  The  terms  of  the  other  are  not  nearly 
so  liberal,  and  are  not  intended  to  be  so.  Odd  Fellowship,  unlike 
its  ancient  sister,  is  not  conservative,  but  in  every  sense  is  aggres- 
sive. The  one  is  a  philosophic  school,  the  other  an  army ;  this  a 
nursery  of  sound  principles  and  grand  designs,  that  an  active  and 
philanthropic  workshop ;  one  seeks  to  furnish  light  to  the  seeker, 
and  the  other  to  reflect  it  over  all  the  world.  The  Odd  Fellow 
then  is  a  missionary — his  mission  to  bring  mankind  into  one 
brotherhood :  he  is  a  crusader — his  crusade  a  war  with  vice ;  he 
is  a  nurse,  an  educator,  a  reliever  of  suffering — hence  his  primary 
objects  include  the  sick,  the  infant,  and  the  widow.  And  as  these 
are  the  main  purposes,  it  follows  that  a  treasury  is  the  very  centre 
of  the  system.  This  is  fed  and  drained  by  the  beneficial  feature, 
which  is  the  life  of  the  Order ;  and  so  the  distinction  between  the 
two  Orders  is  complete.  Odd  Fellowship  then  is  all  plain  sailing 
without  the  charts  of  science.  The  whole  foundation  rests  upon 
one  brief  but  immortal  paragraph : 

"  THE  FATHERHOOD  OF  GOD,  THE  BROTHERHOOD  OF  MAN." 

Hence  our  ritual  covers  but  the  one  ground,  HUMANITY,  and 
works  always  under  the  blessing  of  the  Providence  that  cares  for 
man :  DIVINITY.  Masonry,  upon  the  other  hand,  is  not  a  benefi- 
cial society.  True,  one  of  its  landmarks  is  charity,  and  that  has 
never  failed  when  occasion  demanded  its  exercise ;  but  that  virtue 
is  not  its  chief  characteristic.  Its  benevolence  is  not  organized  into 


494:  AMERICAN    ODD   FELLOWSHIP. 

a  system,  and  its  dues  do  not  represent  a  fund  whose  chief  design 
is  benefits.  Its  benefits  are  intellectual,  social,  and  refining,  and 
its  tendency  as  the  great  mystic  body  is  to  seek  its  proselytes  in 
the  higher  walks  of  life,  and  in  the  select  circles  of  men  of  influ- 
ence and  note.  Its  foundations  were  laid  in  an  obsciire  anti- 
quity, and  the  building  of  its  temple  was  completed  by  a  race 
which  has  left  it  with  conditions  that  no  vandal  hand  shall  alter 
so  much  as  a  hair's-breadth  of  its  original  design  and  symmetry. 
Thus  of  necessity  the  work  is  ready  to  the  hand,  and  the  work- 
man but  reproduces  from  the  model  whose  design  was  written 
on  the  ancient  trestle-board.  The  vital  point  then  in  Masonry 
is  its  SECRET,  beautiful,  and  instructive  and  universal  in  its  ten- 
dency— the  mother  mystery  of  the  modern  world. 

Our  degrees  have  never  been  classified  into  their  true  rela- 
tions. They  seem  at  first  blush  to  be  merely  accidental;  no 
outward  link  connects  them,  no  backward  glance  groups  them 
together.  They  are  apparently  a  mass  without  general  shape  or 
outlines.  To  speak  of  them  as  a  system  would  seem  a  kind  of 
mockery.  What  a  confusion  of  tongues  is  here,  speaking  such 
opposite  if  not  contradictory  things !  what  a  wealth  of  emblems 
without  coherent  meaning  !  what  multitudes  of  lessons  without  a 
plan  !  what  significant  WORDS  unconnected  and  never  joined  in 
a  pregnant  sentence  !  what  diversity  of  forms  to  express  an  idea  ! 
what  deviations  to  arrive  at  a  common  goal !  All  this  and  more 
swells  the  note  of  interrogation.  But  we  are  not  dismayed  by 
the  apparent  difficulties,  but  rather  delighted  that  we  may  turn 
on  the  light  upon  our  secret  treasures.  As  we  have  no  official 
sanction  to  a  plan,  no  one  will  be  bound  by  our  elucidation.  But 
we  shall  not  hesitate  for  that,  but  give  our  solution,  leaving  to 
others  the  grateful  office  of  improving  on  our  theory. 

THE    ANALYSIS   OF   THE   THEORY   OF   THE   SECRET   WORK. 

It  is  only  in  our  initiatory  service  that  we  embody  the  secret* 
of  the  ancient  mystics :  the  old  story  of  mortality  and  its  lesson, 
grief,  fear  and  doubt,  slavery  and  chains,  followed  by  the  epopee 
of  immortality,  hope,  joy,  liberty  and  love.  In  the  degrees  pro- 
per we  have  abandoned  the  Egyptian  and  Dionysian  methods. 
We  no  longer  aspire  to  know,  but  to  do  ;  we  seek  knowledge  only 
for  its  principles,  and  learn  principles  only  for  the  value  of  their 


THEORY  OF  THE  DEGREES. 


495 


results.  We  are  not  seekers  for  light,  but  assume  that  we  are 
already  enlightened.  In  the  anteroom,  as  on  an  altar,  we  in- 
scribe our  belief  in  Deity;  having  invoked  the  Divine  favor 
and  providence,  we  have  only  to  learn  our  duty.  The  initiation 
prepares  us  for  the  lesson,  and  that  lesson  is  always  practical. 
Hence,  our  degrees  aim,  by  successive  steps,  to  form  a  workman, 
and  to  put  him  to  appropriate  labor.  The  treatment  is  pictorial, 
by  example,  and  didactic.  The  neophyte  beholds  the  world  as  the 
field  of  his  labors ;  he  sees  it  lying  in  wickedness,  the  poor  neg- 
lected, the  weak  downtrodden,  and  the  many  the  footstools  of 
the  selfish  few.  Here  are  the  unemployed,  but  industrious,  who 
are  shunned,  the  sick  untended,  the  orphan  ignorant  and  desti- 
tute, the  widow  in  penury,  and  the  very  dead  almost  unhearsed 
to  a  dreary  funeral.  The  degrees  disclose  these  evils  and  the 
remedy  ;  that  remedy  is  FRATERNITY.  It  has  but  one  form  :  asso- 
ciation ;  but  one  principle,  benevolence  ;  but  one  doctrine,  tolera- 
tion /  but  one  order,  equality.  Thus  all  the  workmen  are  one, 
and  the  work  itself  is  a  unity.  It  follows  that  the  end  is  to  unite 
all  mankind  into  a  vast  and  loving  brotherhood. 

But  the  degrees  take  a  yet  higher  range.  As  skilled  and  sci- 
entific workmen  precede  all  others  in  device  and  workmanship, 
so  we  educate  ours  in  the  deep  secrets  that  underlie  their  work. 
Union,  integrity  and  zeal  are  inculcated ;  virtue  and  honor  are 
set  as  their  mirror,  and  truth  erected  as  the  common  standard. 
FRIENDSHIP  is  linked  to  benevolence,  and  love  to  charity.  A 
common  language  makes  them  sui  generis,  and  a  common  obliga- 
tion binds  them  in  a  lasting  covenant. 

With  this  explanation  we  have  nothing  to  fear  from  compari- 
son with  others.  We  have  our  theatre,  they  have  theirs ;  our 
object  dignifies  the  means,  and  no  other  means  would  suit  our 
purposes.  The  Odd  Fellow,  then,  should  be  proud  of  his  ritual, 
both  as  an  original,  and  because  it  is  fruitful.  We  are  not  among 
dry  roots,  but  in  the  clear  sunshine,  among  the  waving  forests ;, 
all  is  natural  and  beautiful.  Here  are  shade  and  protection,  there 
cooling  springs  and  verdure.  Orchards  smile  in  full  blossom, 
and  golden  fruits  reward  the  laborer.  The  popular  theory  of  such 
things  has  misled  us  as  to  the  value  of  our  work.  Hence  it  is 
common  to  depreciate  it,  and  in  many  instances  to  consider  it  as- 
merely  a  loose  collection  of  emblems  and  allegories.  To  the  con- 
trary, all  are  parts  of  a  symmetrical  and  completed  whole.  True, 


496  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

they  were  not  produced  upon  a  prepared  model,  and  did  not  come 
together  at  the  same  time.  But  this  is  their  chief  merit.  Odd 
Fellowship  is  not  a  creation,  but  a  growth;  no  man  devised  it 
and  put  it  before  the  world  ;  but  many  men,  at  different  periods, 
and  under  the  pressure  of  its  growth,  have  added,  subtracted  and 
improved  until  every  fragment  has  been  bound  together  in  a  sys- 
tem. This  has  been  most  true  of  the  ritual.  Similar,  and  for 
the  most  part  the  same,  sentiments  were  always  the  producing 
causes.  The  demands  of  the  work  and  the  ambition  of  the  work- 
men have  called  for  liner  tools  and  advanced  machinery ;  but 
always  to  the  same  end.  It  is  the  old  story  of  demand  and  sup- 
ply;  but  the  demand  was  of  the  same  nature,  and  the  supply  of 
the  same  material.  It  is  the  old  argument,  but  urged  by  superior 
reasoning  and  greater  motives.  Similar  examples,  but  of  a  larger 
number  and  variety;  the  same  character  of  emblems,  but  indi- 
cating a  wider  range  of  illustration  ;  the  same  grand  lesson,  but 
taught  for  loftier  purposes,  and  with,  if  possible,  divine  sanctions. 
The  connection  and  order  of  sequence  are  not  always  apparent; 
there  are  gaps  and  sudden  transitions  which  appear  incongruous ; 
in  a  word,  it  is  not  logical.  But  considered  as  moral  and  practi- 
cal lessons,  the  difficulty  disappears.  In  that  view  all  is  harmo- 
nious. When  the  object  is  to  bind  men  together  for  benevolence 
and  charity,  severe  logic  is  not  required.  It. appeals  to  the  nobler 
instincts  of  the  soul,  to  awaken  sympathy,  to  create  a  common 
interest,  and  above  all,  to  invoke  the  presence  of  heaven-born 
charity.  Call  it  the  development  of  the  better  feelings,  if  you 
please,  and  we  are  satisfied,  for  these  are  all  combined  in  the 
master  passion  of  LOVE. 

We  defy  any  careful  study  of  our  ritual  which  does  not  mani- 
fest its  excellence  and  power.  The  seeker  for  amusement  and 
intellectual  excitement  will  soon  be  satisfied.  But  the  philan- 
thropist will  roam  through  it  with  increasing  wonder  and  su- 
preme delight.  The  uncultured  will  find  the  refinement  no  let- 
ters can  bestow,  an  elevation  of  purpose  no  philosophy  can 
furnish ;  the  poor,  the  road  to  help  and  contentment,  and  the  sor- 
rowing and  desprate,  friends  and  comforters.  It  is  an  equipment 
with  which  a  man  becomes  a  more  valuable  citizen,  a  better 
father  of  a  family.  In  a  word,  no  mere  human  arrangement  has 
been  formed  by  which  man  may  more  certainly  attain  his  true 
altitude  by  the  regeneration  of  the  race.  We  shall  essay  a  vin- 


THEORY  OF  THE  DEGREES.  497 

dication  of  this  opinion  by  the  degrees  themselves.  They  will  be 
produced  in  their  proper  sequence,  as  necessary  parts  of  the  plan; 
the  lesson  will  be  gradually  unfolded,  the  curtain  drawn ;  each 
successive  portion  will  be  assigned  its  place ;  the  apparent  gaps 
shown  only  to  be  proper  intervals ;  distant  parts  will  be  brought 
together  until  the  whole,  as  a  grand  panorama,  will  be  presented 
in  a  single  picture. 

ANALYSIS    OF  THE    DEGREES    OF    THE    SUBORDINATE    LODGE. 

The  initiation  consists  of  a  dramatic  form,  after  the  manner 
of  the  ancient  mysteries.  The  difference,  and  as  we  think,  their 
superiority,  consists  in  the  theory  of  human  regeneration  and  the 
practical  lesson  of  mutual  sympathy  and  relief.  All  this  in  gen- 
eral terms.  But  the  degrees  are  specific.  They  are  five  steps  of 
a  ladder  that  reach  a  lofty  summit.  But  each  step  is  a  necessary 
one  in  the  ascent.  Or,  to  change  the  figure,  they  form  a  system 
of  mystic  teaching  linked  together  by  natural  logic ;  theory  and 
practice  invoked  to  form  principles  and  habits  worthy  of  man- 
kind. Thus  the  1st  Degree  is  an  allegory  of  the  theory  of  human 
happiness,  both  in  sentiment  and  action.  The  2d  Degree  shows 
that  this  is  to  be  attained  only  by  association;  that  the  only 
basis  of  such  a  union  is  a  covenant.  The  3d  Degree  forms  that 
covenant  upon  the  virtue  of  friendship.  The  4th  Degree  makes 
it  more  binding  by  the  cement  of  love.  The  5th  Degree  is  the 
acme  of  all,  making  the  condition  of  that  bond,  universal  love— 
the  reign  of  truth. 

These  are  intensely  practical  and  profound.  What  are  they 
but  training  for  a  better  life  among  a  band  of  brethren  ?  The 
centre  of  all  this  teaching  is  the  LODGE — the  object  of  all  this  love 
is  the  BROTHERHOOD.  It  forms  a  family,  and  brings  each  member 
in  harmony  with  the  whole.  The  degrees  then  make  a  man  a 
good  Odd  Fellow.  But  the  Encampment  has  a  further  and  dif- 
ferent object.  It  deals  with  the  subject  in  a  different  aspect. 
It  has  no  concern  with  itself  in  a  lodge  capacity,  none  with  its 
members  as  a  single  family.  It  turns  to  the  world  as  its  lodge, 
to  all  men  as  its  membership,  and  the  union  of  all  men  as  its 
mission.  Hence  the  Patriarchal  Degree  exhibits  abstractly  IN- 
TOLERANCE even  among  brethren.  The  Golden  Kule  Degree 
gives  us  the  same  lesson  on  a  broader  scale — the  intolerance  of 
32 


498 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


the  world  to  its  benefactors.  Both  of  them  show  by  contrast  the 
tolerance  of  Odd  Fellowship,  and  most  grandly  prove  that  no  fate 
is  so  hard  but  that  brotherly  love  will  share  and  relieve  it.  Thus 
it  deals  with  all  mankind  and  realizes  every  promise  made  to  the 
initiate.  For  each  Encampment  of  the  Order  is  a  missionary  of 
toleration  to  the  world,  The  Koyal  Purple  Degree  speaks  for 
itself  as  the  chief  of  all.  Scenic,  didactic,  alarming,  consoling — 
no  theory  can  compass  it.  It  is  the  dream  fulfilled,  a  life's  vic- 
tory, and  beyond  it  nothing  lies  but  the  boundless  horizon  of  the 
infinite. 

EXEMPLIFICATION  OF  THE  DEGREES. 

THE    INITIATION. 

The  applicant  is  now  a  brother ;  he  is  in  the  retreat  of  Odd 
Fellows ;  the  world  is  shut  out ;  he  is  beyond  the  threshold,  and 


the  voice  of  the  Past  Grand  discloses  the  broad  scope  of  his  future 
usefulness.  He  here  finds  that  five  interior  recesses  lie  before 
him,  each  with  its  mystery  and  its  lesson.  The  candidate  ad- 
vances under  the  guidance  of  the  Conductor,  having  confidence 
that  all  will  be  well  with  him.  In  this  frame  of  mind  he  begins 
his  lesson. 


THEORY    OF    THE    DEGREES. 


4:99 


THE    FIRST    DEGREE. 


He  knocks  at  the  first  portal  and  it  slowly  opens.  Here  he 
shuts  his  eyes  before  the  glowing  splendor  of  the  full-orbed  sun. 
Light  brighter  than  noonday  envelopes  him — the  light  of  many 
worlds.  When  he  can  bear  the  blinding  glory,  he  looks  around 
him.  On  a  shifting  cloud  the  emblem  of  death  is  reposing. 


The  two  extremes  are  meeting,  day  and  night,  mortality  and  im- 
mortality. Every  golden  arrow  fixes  a  sentiment,  which  life's 
instability  rivets  in  the  mind.  On  a  lofty  scroll  he  finds  his  lesson, 
"  Benevolence,  Brotherly  Love,  and  Charity."  Personified,  they 
usher  him  to  the  inner  door,  on  which  are  written  respectively, 
"  TEMPERANCE,  SOBRIETY,  and  CHASTITY."  These  significant 
words  sink  deep  into  his  soul.  Temperance,  which  forbids  noth- 
ing that  is  good,  and  which  is  the  true  law  by  which  all  things 
should  be  done  and  enjoyed,  leads,  by  a  natural  succession,  to 
sobriety  of  character.  In  that  soberness  of  sentiment  and  judg- 
ment one  may  see  all  the  virtues  coming  forth  beautiful  as  the 
flowers  of  spring.  Above  all,  does  it  not  produce  that  queen  of  all 
goodness — that  white  garment  of  the  soul — that  lovely  bud  from 
which  all  spotless  flowers  burst  forth  full  blown — CHASTITY  ? 


500 


AMERICAN     ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


THE    SECOND    DEGREE. 


He  is  now  beyond  the  next  portal ;  in  an  ancient  crypt  he 
stands  before  two  objects :  first,  a  bundle  of  sticks,  and  secondly, 
a  bow  and  arrows.  In  each  separate  rod  he  sees  his  weakness ; 
in  the  bundle,  union  and  strength.  That  strength  is  now  ex- 


erted. The  bow  is  placed  in  his  hands  and  a  quiver  at  his  side. 
Neophyte !  thou  art  now  in  armor.  Firm  in  thy  principles  and 
invincible,  thou  canst  enter  the  lists.  This  union  is  "  one  for  all, 
and  all  for  one."  Invisible  hands  grasp  thine  with  friendly 
pressure ;  neophyte !  those  hands  are  joined  to  others,  and  they 
again  to  others,  until  taking  the  circuit  of  a  continent,  they  return 
in  the  last  to  form  the  circle.  It  is  a  solemn  hour,  for  it  records 
a  solemn  COVENANT.  It  is  the  compact  for  MUTUAL  RELIEF,  for 
a  common  defence.  But  having  thus  formed  our  union  in  an  al- 
legory, we  must  place  it  in  firmer  keeping.  For  what  are  obli- 
gations but  contracts,  which  may  or  may  not  be  executed  ?  It  is 
not  sufficient  that  one  shall  promise,  but  that  he  shall  fulfil  his 
agreement.  To  do  this  he  must  prepare  himself,  by  careful  fore- 
sight and  the  husbanding  of  his  resources,  to  meet  the  demand  he 
has  created.  In  this  new  field  of  action  he  thirsts  to  know  how 
he  may  measure  up  to  the  terms  of  his  covenant. 


THEORY  OK  THE  DEGREKS. 


THE  THIRD  DEGREE. 


501 


The  candidate  therefore  enters  a  temple  as  his  next  proceed- 
ing. Here,  in  ample  folds,  is  the  serpent ;  there  an  open  hand 
whose  palm  is  a  human  heart ;  between  them  rises  the  Jewish 


Ark  of  the  Covenant.  How  suggestive  and  inspiring  !  What  & 
combination !  the  wise  serpent,  the  uncovered  heart,  the  taber- 
nacle of  Jehovah.  Learn,  my  brother,  that  the  living  tie  of 
FRIENDSHIP  is  the  bond  of  unity.  No  device  of  wisdom  can  find 
a  better,  no  impulse  a  stronger ;  such  a  union  is  a  seat  of  mercy, 
and  above  it  with  extended  wings  do  angels  minister.  The  em- 
blems that  surround  him  are  but  the  picture  language  which  tells 
him  how  he  may  discharge  the  duties  of  his  new  relations.  The 
winding  serpent  has  always  been  the  emblem  of  wisdom,  which 
acts  with  caution,  and  slowly  but  surely  compasses  its  ends.  But 
there  is  also  the  open  hand  of  charity  and  a  kindly  heart ;  hence 
all  the  devices  which  are  here  inculcated  have  but  the  one  object 
of  doing  good.  But  these  human  traits,  thus  carefully  combined, 
might  fail,  unless  some  higher  motive  and  more  solemn  sanction 
were  vouchsafed  to  us  from  heaven.  Hence  he  looks  upwards  to 
the  Eternal  Father  as  the  common  parent  who  instructs  and  in- 
spires his  children,  and  makes  these  vows  that  are  registered  .in 
the  Eternal  Archives. 


502 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


THE    FOURTH    DEGREE. 


Confidently  lie  advances  into  a  larger  space.  Here  scenic 
power  exalts  his  zeal.  A  larnb  in  its  innocence ;  scales  balanced 
and  supported  by  a  sword ;  and  in  the  deep  blue  a  revolving  globe. 
"  Be  just  and  fear  not,"  says  his  monitor,  "  innocence  and  purity 


will  give  the  victory."  Take  this  potent  weapon,  irresistible  as 
the  sword  of  Solomon,  more  effective  than  artillery  !  Such  only 
are  found  in  Heaven's  armory !  LOVE  is  the  power  to  conquer : 
LOVE,  which  is  immortal,  for  it  is  stronger  than  death.  This 
master  passion  is  the  ruler  of  both  heaven  and  earth,  and  enters 
into  the  entire  order  of  things  as  the  binding  and  universal  har- 
mony. But  innocence  alone  can  sanctiiy  the  passion.  It  is  in 
pure  souls,  that  have  been  washed  in  pellucid  streams,  that  love 
burns  as  the  eternal  flame  which  vestal  virgins  fed  in  ancient 
fanes.  In  that  revolving  globe  appears  the  majestic  signature  of 
the  ETERNAL  LAW,  which  tells  us  of  the  judgment-seat  beyond, 
where  that  law  will  be  administered  ;  the  omnipotent  law  of  love. 
At  the  eternal  throne  the  balances  are  hung,  in  which  motes  and 
worlds  and  men  are  truly  weighed.  Innocence  is  the  mother  and 
the  sister  of  purity,  producing  and  nurturing  all  those  modest 
virtues  that  adorn  the  character,  as  robes  and  jewels  and  crowns 
beautify  the  body. 


THEORY    OF    THE    DEGREES. 


503 


THE    FIFTH    DEGREE. 


Deeply  impressed  and  pondering  these  things,  he,  last  of  all, 
ascends  to  an  upper  chamber.  All  here  is  significant.  An  hour 
glass  is  rapidly  exhausting  its  sands,  and  a  coffin  stands  ready  for 


the  bier ;  but  above  them,  with  illuminated  pages,  is  the  open 
book  of  the  oracles  of  God.  Disciple,  you  can  go  no  further  ! 
Your  lesson  is  complete.  You  see  a  UNIVERSAL  BROTHERHOOD, 
united  by  golden  chains  of  RELIEF  and  SYMPATHY;  FRIENDSHIP 
and  LOVE  triumph  in  works  of  CHARITY,  and  TRUTH,  severe  and 
beautiful,  asserts  dominion.  For  time  flies  rapidly  away  and  the 
grave  has  its  victory ;  but  TRUTH  never  fails,  and  will  endure  forever. 
The  march  of  time  is  the  revolution  of  all  mundane  things.  On 
the  great  dial  of  history  we  may  see  the  slowly  moving  fingers 
that  overturn  and  build  up,  and  again  cast  down  all  human  hopes, 
as  the  solemn  bell  tolls  out  the  coming  of  some  epoch  then  gone 
forever.  But  time  has  one  minister  whose  works  follow  as  the 
mighty  retinue  of  so  great  a  power.  Death  is  the  prime  minister 
of  time,  and  executes  his  edicts  and  works  his  will  among  the 
people.  Death  also  has  his  emblem  blazoned  on  his  black  and 
blood-stained  shield  ;  but  the  coffin,  by  God's  mercy,  is  also  the 
emblem  of  immortality. 


504 


AMERICAN  ODD  FELLOWSHIP. 


THE  END  OF  THE  DEGREES. 


Thus  we  have  hurried  through  the  subordinate  degrees  to 
their  noble  climax.  Here  is  no  science,  no  tinsel  rhetoric,  no 
speculative  philosophy.  It  is  the  eloquence  that  leads  to  action. 
How  every  string  of  passion  vibrates  under  touches  that  deal 
with  the  godlike  nature !  What  wonder  then  at  the  beneficence 
that  crowns  the  work  !  Here  we  pause  ;  the  citizen  has  become 
a  brother ;  the  brother  a  workman ;  the  workman  a  philanthro- 
pist ;  the  philanthropist  is  seeking  to  save ;  the  workman  labors 
in  the  family  workshop ;  the  citizen  discharges  his  duty  to  the 
State,  and  the  brother  sits  in  the  circle  of  his  brethren,  devising 
the  elevation  of  mankind.  The  work,  indeed,  "goes  bravely  on." 


But  the  Odd  Fellow,  when  he  has  time  for  contemplation, 
starts  at  finding  himself  yet  ignorant  of  some  higher  mystery. 
He  has  been  told  that  he  is  already  furnished ;  why  then  this 


THEORY  OF  THE  DEGREES. 


505 


superfluity  ?  True,  the  workman  is  skilled  and  able,  and  in  FRA- 
TERNITY his  lesson  is  completed.  If  he  is  not  yet  fused  into  the 
general  sympathy  and  in  love  with  practical  goodness,  no  further 
enlightenment  can  avail.  He  is  an  Odd  Fellow  indeed  in  his 
lodge  arid  among  his  brethren.  But  a  broader  field  of  action 
awaits  him.  The  WORLD  requires  his  ministry.  Other,  and  if 
possible,  profounder  knowledge  is  necessary  in  that  field.  Hence 
he  enters  on  the  last  stage  of  preparation. 

THE    ENCAMPMENT. 

Ascending  to  a  lofty  outlook,  he  gazes  on  a  scene  both  new  and 
attractive.  A  multitude  of  brothers,  of  many  lodge  families,  are 
met  in  council.  They  enter  in  throngs  an  edifice  of  peculiar 
beauty.  Banners  are  waving  and  shouts  of  triumph  fill  the  air. 
He  rushes  forth  to  join  them,  but  they  have  entered  and  the  doors 
are  closed. 

THE    PATRIARCHAL,    DEGREE. 


He  does  not  hesitate,  but  knocks  loudly  at  the  entrance.  On 
learning  that  a  brother  awaits,  the  door  is  opened.  He  enters,  a 
brother  among  brethren ;  erect  and  confident,  he  expects  a  wel- 
come. But  he  halts  in  confusion  and  dismay;  darkness  over- 
whelms him ;  his  struggles  are  vain.  Why  this  terrible  captiv- 


506 


AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 


ity  ?  "Are  we  not  brethren  ?  "  he  cries  ;  but  no  answering  sym- 
pathy responds  to  his  appeal.  He  is  a  strange  brother — an  in- 
truder— hence  these  horrors  of  INTOLERANCE. 

But  ]amps  are  flashing  in  the  gloom ;  he  shouts  aloud  the 
sacred  WORDS  ;  he  flings  broadcast  the  SIGNS  and  TOKENS  of  his 
fellowship.  A  voice  is  cheering  him — how  assuring  !  "  Prejudice 
may  impose  bonds  and  fetters,  but  justice  will  award  the  greet- 
ings of  a  brother."  Help  is  at  hand ;  the  darkness  flies,  the  fet- 
ters fall  away.  He  stands  in  the  shadows  of  three  pillars — 
FAITH,  HOPE  and  CHARITY — and  his  trust  ascends  in  the  cloud  of 
an  ALTAR  OF  INCENSE.  His  trial  is  over,  and  in  the  desert  waste 
the  TENT  receives  him  to  its  rites  of  HOSPITALITY.  But  a  second 
ordeal  awaits  him. 

THE  GOLDEN  RULE  DEGREE. 

Again  he  approaches,  and  they  bid  him  enter  the  same  scene 
of  darkness;  but  lo  !  as  if  smitten  by  lightning,  the  darkness  van- 
ishes. What  means  this  vast  assemblage  ?  Surely  it  is  the  day 
of  doom.  It  is  Father  Adam,  with  his  mighty  family.  The 
zones  are  here  with  their  inhabitants,  and  every  longitude  has 
sent  a  representative.  Now,  philanthropist,  behold  the  subjects 


of  thy  mission  !  Delightedly  he  enters  on  the  work,  but  alas !  one 
wide,  loud-resounding  rage  of  BIGOTRY  assails  him.  Every  nation 
of  the  family  contends  for  priority  in  his  execution  as  a  male- 


THEORY  OF  THE  DEGREES. 


507 


factor.  The  African  draws  his  club  and  hatchet,  the  Asiatic  his 
scimitar,  the  European  erects  his  gibbet  and  builds  his  pyre,  and 
the  American  stands  ready  to  hurl  his  tomahawk.  Dreamer  of 
universal  goodness,  behold  the  reality  !  But  again  he  shouts  forth 
the  potent  WORDS,  displays  his  SIGNALS  ;  when  thousands  of  a 
common  brotherhood  dash  away  the  hateful  weapons  and  instru- 
ments of  wickedness.  The  subjugated  nations  hasten  to  repair 
the  injury.  The  cross  and  crescent  wave  upon  the  same  standard, 
and  Moses,  in  the  seat  of  judgment,  utters  the  grandest  lesson  of 
UNIVERSAL  TOLERATION.  But  he  is  yet  to  pass  a  last  barrier  ere 
he  emerges  into  the  fullest  liberty. 

THE  ROYAL  PURPLE  DEGREE. 

Again  he  enters ;  his  nerves  are  strong,  his  faith  firm — for  no 
trembler  can  endure  the  test.  Now  the  candidate  becomes  a 
wanderer;  he  knows  not  which  way  to  turn  ;  pitiless  storms  beset 
him ;  darkness,  as  a  pall,  envelopes  heaven  and  earth,  with  no 
guiding  stars  to  illuminate  his  pathway.  He  knows  not  whither  to 


fly ;  human  tigers  lurk  by  the  wayside,  tempters,  in  goblin  shapes, 
lure  him  to  ruin  ;  assassins  are  abroad  with  deadly  purposes ;  he 
gropes  and  stumbles  helplessly  under  a  bleak  sky  and  in  a  biting 
wind.  His  guides  are  rude  and  cruel ;  precipices  line  the  path  ; 
abysses  yawn,  and  ghastly  terror  threatens  on  every  side.  But 


508  AMERICAN    ODD    FELLOWSHIP. 

joy  comes,  the  morning  breaks,  and  the  traveler  is  safe.  Smiling 
pastures  lie  at  his  feet,  golden  harvests  are  waving,  and  gleaming 
rivers  sparkle  in  the  sunshine.  TENTS  with  white  walls  and 
glittering  ensigns  crowd  the  landscape.  Rosy  children  are  at 
play ;  caravans  display  their  costly  merchandise.  Peace  and 
contentment  are  dwellers  in  this  valley,  and  over  all  a  venerable 
PATRIARCH  holds  his  gentle  sway. 

Pilgrim,  thou  hast  exemplified  the  journey  of  human  life  t 
How  dangerous,  how  seductive,  how  environed  by  destruction ! 
Invincible,  with  thy  principles,  go  forward  !  Behold  the  prepa- 
ration !  the  Scrip,  with  humble  but  sufficient  sustenance ;  the 
Sandals  that  wrill  soon  be  worn  away,  and  the  Staff  to  guide  thy 
tottering  footsteps.  Away,  then,  away !  Time  is  passing — away  I 
Death  is  coming — away !  God  is  calling,  and  but  a  little  while  and 
HUMANITY  shall  rise  from  ten  thousand  seats  to  praise  thy  work 
and  do  thee  reverence !  Upon  the  plains  where  Abraham  was 
blessed,  in  the  midst  of  blooming  oases,  behold  the  ENCAMPMENT. 
Patriarch,  you  are  behind  and  in  the  front  of  all  the  civilizations ! 
Gold  has  lost  its  gilding ;  empires  are  but  human  families ;  but 
one  blood  cements  the  race ;  and  on  the  throne  of  earth,  supreme 
and  eternal,  forever  reigns  the  FATHERHOOD  OF  GOD  ! 


INDEX. 


PAGE. 

ABBETT,  THOMAS  M.,  of  District  of  Columbia. 

Early  history  of 486 

Tributes  to , 487 

Career  in  the  Order ,487-8 

1st  Rep.  to  G.  L.  U.  S.  from  District  of  Columbia 488 

Removes  to  Baltimore 488 

G.  Rep.  from  Maryland , 488 

Death  and  funeral 488-9 

ALABAMA. 

Wildey  opens  a  lodge  and  encampment  in  - 287 

ANNIVERSARY  OF  AMERICAN  ODD  FELLOWSHIP. 

Discussion  upon  fixing  day  of 114 

26th  April  and  early  celebrations 115,  117,  143,  144,  145,  146,  147 

In  Massachusetts 352,  373-4 

In  Pennsylvania „ 473,  474 

ASHWORTH,  GEORGE,  of  Massachusetts. 

Sketch  of 358 

BANNER. 

Of  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland. 120 

Of  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts 373 

Of  New  England  Lodge  No.  4,  Massachusetts 373 

BARNES,  JAMES  B.,  of  Massachusetts. 

Early  life  of , 336 

Middle  life  of. 337 

Early  efforts  of 338-340 

Medals  presented  to 336-7,  340-1 

Tribute  to , 341 

Death  in  Virginia  and  funeral  in  New  England 341 

BARK,  THOMAS,  of  Massachusetts. 

Joins  Good  Samaritan  Lodge  No.  3 .....357 

Deputy  Grand  Master 358 

Grand  Warden  of  Grand  Encampment  358 

Still  living , 358 

BARTLE,  RUDOLPH  H.,  of  Pennsylvania. 

.  Grand  Master,  notice  of 465 

BENEFITS. 

System  adopted  by  Washington  Lodge  No.  1  26 

Funeral 131 

BOYD,  JOHN,  of  Maryland. 

19th  member  initiated  in  Washington  Lodge  No.  1 58 

Grand  Treasurer  and  G.  G.  of  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  U.  S „  32,  58 

Refuses  to  be  Grand  Master 59 

Known  as  "THE  PAST  GRAND" 60 

Services  of 60-1 

Characteristics  of 62 

Last  public  appearance  of 62-3 

Medal  to , 64,  217 

Close  of  life,  and  death  of...- 63 

(509) 


510  INDEX. 

PAGE. 

Box,  STRONG,  of  Washington  Lodge  No.  1 26- 

of  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland ,114 

of  Grand  Lodge  of  Massachusetts... 371 

BRADLEY,  Rev.  C.  W.,  of  Connecticut. 

Author  of  theory  of  colors  in  5th  degree 322,  327 

CARDS,  VISITING. 

In  Manchester  Unity 21,  133 

Of  Grand  Lodge  of  Maryland 122',  133 

History  of  , 189 

Price  of  as  supplies 131,  139 

Furnished  by  Maryland  190 

Furnished  by  Grand  Lodge  of  the  U.  S ......190 

To  be  endorsed  by  holder 205 

CARDS,  WITHDRAWAL. 

In  Pennsylvania 440 

CATHOLIC  CHURCH. 

Hostility  of  ..... » 5. 

Borrowers  of  our  Regalia,  &c 5 

Its  ritual  borrowed  from  the  ancients 266 

Why  worshippers  of  the  Virgin  Mary , 266 

CERTIFICATES. 

Use  of ...133 

Cards  in  lieu  of , 133 

CHAPIN,  Rev.  E.  H.,  of  Connecticut. 

Of  Committee  on  Revision „ , 319-326 

CHARTED,  GRAND. 

Five  P.  G.'s  to  petition  for , 181 

Charge  for,  and  degrees 181-2,  226- 

COLFAX,  SCHUYLER,  of  Indiana. 

Author  of  "Degree  of  Rebekah" 330 

COLORS. 

Author  of  dissertation  on 327 

Royal  Purple,  first  mentioned 178 

Order  and  names  of  the 178- 

CONVIVIALITY. 

In  England 42' 

In  Ancient  Lodges  of  I.  O.  O.  F 389-390 

Prevailed  in  every  Lodge  in  U.  S.  in  1823 ....    43 

In  Manchester  Unity  in  1823 ., 46 

In  Washington  Lodge  No.  1  (Maryland)  in  1821 55- 

In  Pennsylvania  in  1824 441 

In  Washington  Lodge  No.  2  (Pennsylvania)  in  1824 442 

Welch  the  only  one  of  founders  temperate 106- 

Temperance  question  in  1823...., 153 

Temperance  action  of  G.  L.  of  Md.  &  U.  S.  in  1823.... ,  4& 

Temperance  reform  of  Augustus  Mathiot 43,  47,  150, -153 

Resolutions  of  Augustus  Mathiot 44 

Record  of  and  claim  by  Augustus  Mathiot 151-2: 

History  of  corrected 152 

Mathiot's  great  services  in 153 

Mathiot' s,  Tribute  of  Hostess  Adams  to 45- 

"With  a  vengeance" 47 

By  Siloam  Lodge  No.  2  (Massachusetts)  in  1824 351 

A  Cold  Water  Lodge 54 

COUTH,  WILLIAM  S.,  of  Maryland. 

First  G.  W.  of  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  U.  S 32 

One  of  "  The  Three  Links  " 160 

CROWDER,  JOHN,  P.  G.,  of  Preston,  England. 

His  Mission  to  England .... 22 

Signature  to  Charter  of  Washington  Lodge 24 


INDEX.  511 

PAGE. 

DAFFIN,  BENJAMIN,  of  Pennsylvania. 

Sketch  of 461 

First  de  facto  G.  Sec.  of  Pennsylvania 462 

Second  G.  Sec.  of  Pennsylvania  by  election - 461 

Services  in  Maryland 461 

DAY,  JAMES,  of  Pennsylvania. 

Case  of 177,  431 

V.  G.  of  Penn  Lodge  No.  1 431 

A  spurious  Odd  Fellow .431 

Initiated  and  admitted 433 

DEGREES 

English 21,  296 

Conditions  for  conferring 127,  297 

American 30 

Price  of. 122-3,  127,  305,404 

Not  to  be  conferred  on  Sunday 116 

Order  of,  fixed 127,  178 

Revised 305 

Colors  of , < 178 

Apparent  confusion  of 494 

Object  of 264,  265,  494-5 

Lectures  of. 315 

Unwritten  Work  of. 328 

Translated  into  German 126,  446 

Partial  Revision  of 138 

Revision  of  1835 318- 

Revision  of  1845 '.319-328 

Theory  of  the 491-494 

Of  I.  O.  O.  F.  and  Masonry 491-2-3 

Of  I.  O.  O.  F.  explained 495,  496,  497 

Exemplified. 498-508 

Qualifications  for  office 127 

First  or  White,  came  from  England 21,  298 

Exemplified 499 

Second  or  Covenant,  American.. ..„ 30 

Attacked  and  vindicated ....  244 

Origin  of 298 

Analysis  of. 244-5 

Carried  to  England  ......... 187,  299 

Exemplified  500 

Third  or  Royal  Blue,  English 21,  298 

Modern,  by  Moore , 322 

Exemplified 501 

Fourth  or  Remembrance,  American 30 

Origin  of 298 

Adopted  in  England  ....  187,  298 

Exemplified 502 

Fifth  or  Scarlet,  English 21-298 

History  of. 300-301 

Exemplified 503 

Patriarchal,  first  appearance  of. - 180,  230 

Crozier  ordered  for  and  Degree  printed - 121 

Trice  of  fixer? 182,  230,  305 

History  .:f 302 

Modern,  by  McCabe 326-327 

Ew>mp1?*cG 505-506 

Golden  Rule,  hiatoi>  of 297,  305 

First  appearance  of - 297 

Price  for. 69,  297,  305 

Originally  limited  to  Past  Grands 84-297 

Modern,  by  Williamson , 327 

Exemplified 506-50T 


512  INDEX. 

PAGE. 

D  EGREES  — Continued. 

Royal  Purple,  produced .230,  300 

History  of. 300-301 

"The  Sublime  Degree" 178 

Price  for 305 

Confined  to  Past  Grands 178 

Adopted  in  England 302 

Modern,  by  Moore 322 

Exemplified , ,507-508 

See  Colors  and  Degrees. 

Grand  Lodge,  origin  of, 301 

Refused  by  Manchester  Unity 302 

Grand   Encampment,  honorary  of  C.  P.  and  H.  P 315 

Of  Rebekah,  author  of, 330 

Past.  Official,  history  of 299 

See  Colors,  Emblems,  Encampment,  Entwisle,  Initiation,  Masonry,  Moore, 
Mysteries,  Obligations,  Odes,  Password,  Ridgely,  Ritual  and  Secret 
Principle. 

DEGREE  LODGES. 

First  appearance  of 205 

History  of  and  effect  of , 331-332 

In  Maryland  and  Pennsylvania 332 

DELAWARE. 

Lodge  No.  1  of,  charter  granted  to 203 

McAnnal's  case  in ...225 

Grand  Lodge  of,  chartered 209 

Charter  of,  vacated ..212-213 

Charter  of,  restored , 226 

See  Pearce. 
DISTRICT  OF  COLUMBIA. 

First  accession  to  G.  L.  U.  S 480 

Meeting  places  in 480-486 

Petition  for  Grand  Lodge  by , 483 

Hall  for  I.  O.  O.  F.  built  and  dedicated 486 

Central  Lodge  No.  1  of,  chartered 191 

Instituted 480 

Organization  of 481 

Adopts  work  of  Penn 481 

First  funeral  in ...481 

List  of  early  members  of 412 

Dissolved  and  reinstated ....485 

Grand  Lodge  of,  institution  and  address  to 484 

Adopts  work  of  Penn 484 

Grand  officers  of 484-485 

Georgetown  Lodge  No.  2  of,  instituted 482-483 

Early  initiates  in. 483 

Lorenzo  Dow  and 483 

Is  dissolved 485 

Concord  Lodge  No.  3  of,  instituted 484 

Is  dissolved 485 

Jonathan  Lodge  No.  4  of,  instituted 485 

Is  dissolved , 485 

Pocahontas  Lodge  No.  5  of,  instituted 485 

First  Lodge  south  of  the  Potomac 485 

Became  extinct 485 

Columbia  Encampment  No.  1  of,  chartered 225 

See  Abbett,  Gettys,  Hall. 
DOWNING,  BENJAMIN,  of  New  York. 

Early  history  of 395-396 

N.  G.  of  Franklin  Lodge  No.  2 392,  396 

Petition  to  G.  L.  U.  S 188,  356 

Later  account  of,...  397 


INDEX.  513 

PAGE. 

EATON,  JAMES  B.,  of  Massachusetts. 

Massachusetts  Lodge  instituted  at  his  house 339 

Second   N.  G.  Massachusetts  Lodge  No.  1 .368 

Sketch  of .368,  369 

ELLISON,  WM.,   P.  G.  Sire  of  Massachusetts. 

Contribution  to  the   History,  Preface  VI 363 

Tribute  to  Siloam  Lodge  No.  2,  Mass 353 

EMBLEM  OF  CORNER-STONE  AND  ANGLES 123 

EMBLEMS  OF  THE  ORDER. 

First  publicly  displayed ..146 

ENCAMPMENT  BRANCH , « 310 

Origin  of 129,  303-304 

Theory  of  the 211 

Early  history  of 311 

Unwritten  Work  of. ...  329 

Ritual  of  the  Revision  of. 325-326-327 

Wildey's  Report  on 202 

Recommended  by  G.  L    U.  S 194 

Legalized  by  G.  L.  U.  S 214,  310 

To  be  controlled  by  G.  L.  U.  b 220 

In  Pennsylvania ....... 308 

In  New  York  and  Massachusetts 309 

ENCAMPMENT. 

Lodge,  chartered  by  G.  L.  of  Mel 129,  303-304 

Of  Patriarchs 135,305 

Charter  of 306 

First  Grand,  chartered  and  organized 216 

Had  only  two  subordinates 163 

See   Degrees,    McCabe,    Moore,     Patriarchs    Uniformed,    Ridgely,    Wil- 
.     liamson  and  Wildey. 

ENTWISLE,  JOHN  PAWSON,  of  Maryland. 

Before  he  jjined  Wiidey 238 

The  literary  member , 68,  239 

Second  of  ''The  Great  Trio  " 102 

Neglected  and  traditions  of 239-240 

Author  of  American  Degrees 30,  240 

Author  of  Representative  System 241 

Author  of  Report  on  Representative  System 91 

First  Medal  voted  to. 79 

First  D.  G.  M.  of  G.  L.  of  Md   and  U.  S 65 

Grand  Sec'y  orG.  L.  of  Md.  and  U.  S 69 

First  elected  G.  Rep.  to  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  U.  S 86 

Correspondence  of  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  U.  S.  by 73,  75 

Reports  first  Constitution  of  the  Order  66 

Circulars  by 71,  95 

On  duties  of  Grand  Master 85 

Beautiful  Essay  by  -242 

Death  of,  announced .... 97,   246-247 

The  Presiding  Genius  of  the  Order 247-248 

Eulogy   of 248-249 

See  Degrees,  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  U.  S.,  Washington  Lodge  No.  2. 

FORD,  WILLIAM  E.,  of  Massachusetts. 

Contributor  to  the  History 363-4 

FUNERAL. 

First  Odd  Fellows'  public 48 

First  Odd  Fellows'  in  District  of  Columbia 481 

First  Odd  Fellows'  in  Massachusetts  369 

Ceremony,  Defence  of. 214-215 

Further  considered .221 

Benefits , 131 

33 


514  INDEX. 


GAREY,  HENRY  F.,  of  Maryland. 

Editor  of  the  History.     Preface  V.  VI. 

GERMAN. 

Mother  Lodge  126,  189 

Wildey  charter  member  of,  and  dies  in... 126 

The  Second  Lodge 446 

A  grand  element  in  I.  O.  O.  F. 126 

Work  translated  into , 126,446 

GETTYS,  JAMES,  of  District  of  Columbia. 

Second  G.  M.  of  District  of  Columbia 489 

G.  Rep.  to  G.  L.  U.  S  ..     489 

Second  Grand  Sire 223,489 

Reflections  on  election  of. 223 

Characteristics  and  death  of , 490 

GRAND — See  Charter. 

GRAND  COMMITTEE. 

Meeting  of... , 66 

Proposes  a  G.  L.  of  U.  S 90 

Movable  Committee,  constituted 193 

Reformed ...200 

Duties  and  Report  of 208 

GRAND  CONDUCTOR. 

Office  of,  created  in  Grand  Lodge  of  Md 05 

GRAND  GUARDIAN. 

John  Boyd,  the  first 58-65 

Thomas  Mitchell 176 

Robert  Gott 201 

Thomas  Morse  223 

GRAND  LODGE — See  several  named  States. 

GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND  AND  THE  UNITED  STATES. 

Organization  of. 32,65 

Had  one  Subordinate 33 

Plan   of  finance  32,  65 

First  Constitution  of 33,  66 

Property  of 115 

Finances  of. 7<>,  90 

Members  and  appearance  of 36 

Officers  of 65,  69 

Forbids  refreshments - 46 

Closing  scenes  of -.,. . .    98 

Provides  for  organizing  G.  L.  U.   S.,  and  adjourns  sine  die 99 

Reflections  upon  career  and  work  of ,.... .100 

See  Maryland,  G.  L.  of  Mass.,  N.  Y.  and  Penn. 

GRAND  LODGE  OF  THE  UNITED  STATES. 

Arrangements  for  forming 83,86,90 

Resolution  to  form,  and  report    87,  91 

First  members  of .... - 86 

First  G.  Rep.  elected  to 86 

Theory  of    87,  88,  111,  173,  174 

First  Constitution  of,  adopted > 98 

Constitutions  of. 174,  175,  201,  225 

Amendments  to 179,  181,  220 

Permanent  seat  of 94 

Sought  by  Penns}lvania 180 

First  meeting  and  organization  of  175,  176 

Dignified  and  impressive  opening  of. 174,  175,  176 

Not  confined  to  Maryland 179 

English  Charter  to *  184 

How  obtained 182,  183 

Journals  of,  first  printed 9 


INDEX.  515 

PAGE. 

GRAND  LODGE  OF  THE  UNITED  STATES — Continued. 

Officers  of 176,  201,  223 

Session  of  1825 , 176,180 

Of  1826 , 180,  188 

Of  1827 - 188,  191 

Of  1828  191,  194,  199,  200 

Of  1829.. 200,  203 

Of  1830 203,  209 

Of  1831 210,  217 

Of  1832  218 

Of  1832  in  Philadelphia 224,  226 

Of  1833 226,  229 

G.  Rep.  Small  of  Pennsylvania  appears  in  , 181 

Action  by,  in  Day's  case 177-8 

Statistics  of 179,  182,  188,  192,  200,  204,  205,  208,  212,  213 

Review  of,  in  1833 , 229 

Expenses  of,  how  to  be  paid  229,  230 

Wildey  Treasurer  of •. 230 

Mathiot  Treasurer  of 156 

Rcommends  Encampments 194,  202 

Massachusetts  absent  from \ 218 

Statistics  and  finances  of,  to  1833..  , 229,  234 

Tribute  to 223,  289 

Scarlet  degree  members  excluded  from  Grand  Lodges  by  167 

Reflections  upon  Order  in  1833,  12  propositions 234-236 

GRAND  MARSHAL. 

Office  of,  created  in  Grand  Lodge  of  Md 121 

GRAND  MASTER. 

Duties  of,  denned... 85 

Honors  to 128 

GRAND  REPRESENTATIVE. 

Provision  for 175 

To  have  R.  Purple  degree 214 

Grand  Lodges  to  pay 230 

Retiring  G.  M.  of  Md.  to  be,  repealed -....131 

Of  Maryland  blamed 179* 

Policy  of «. 179 

John  P.  Entwisle 86 

Charles  Common 97,  180 

Thomas  Scotchburn ....188 

John  Roach 200 

Samuel  Lucas 203 

James  L.  Ridgely , 211 

George  Keyser .218,  219,  222,  224,  226 

Richard  Marley 166,  172 

Of  Pennsylvania,  Wilson  Small 181 

John  W.  Campbell 2uO,  203 

Wm.J.  A.  Birkey 211 

Howell  Hopkins 218,  222,  22^  226 

Of  District  of  Columbia,  Thomas  M.  Abbett. 200 

James  Gettys 203,  211,  219,  224 

Of  Delaware,  Simon  Robinson 226 

GRAND  SECRETARY. 

John  Welch  the  first '. 65 

John  P.  Entwisle 69,  246 

William  Williams 176 

Expelled 130,192 

John  J.  Roach 192 

John  Starr,  pro  tern ••  199- 

Augustus  Mathiot 155,156,  201 

Samuel  Pryor. 223 

Salary  of , 231 


516  INDEX. 

PAGE. 

GRAND  SIRE. 

First  mention  of  Title Ill,  112,  181 

Honors  to 128 

Wildey,  the  first,  176 

Re-elected  as 201 

Term  of,   prolonged 214 

Gettys,  the  second k 223 

GRAND  SIRE,  DEPUTY. 

John  Welch  the  first 104 

Robert  Neilson  the  second „ 223 

GRAND  TREASURER. 

John  Boyd t 58,  135-136 

Thomas  Wildey ,,. 230-232 

Wm.  Hall  nominally , 213 

John  Brannin  refuses  to  serve  as 223,  227 

Augustus  Mathiot 155-156,  229 

GUILD,  ALBERT,  of  Massachusetts. 

Early  history  of 383-4 

Services  of c.  384-5 

Restores  the  Order  in  Massachusetts .385 

Grand  Secretary 385 

Representative  in  Grand  Lodge  U.  S 385 

District  Deputy  G.  Sire 385 

HALL. 

First  in  the  U.  S.  of  the  I.  O.  O.  F.  in  Baltimore 140,  142 

Dedication  of. 140,  147 

Cost  of: 145 

Grand  Lodge  U.  S.  meets  in 210 

South  5th  Street    Philadelphia 475 

Built  and  dedicated 476 

Record  of  dedication ,,.. 477 

In  District  of  Columbia 486 

HARMONY. 

Order  of 45 

HERSEY,  DANIEL,  of  Massachusetts. 

First  American  initiated  in  Massachusetts 339,  368 

N.  G.  of  Siloam  Lodge,  No.  2 339 

Early  history  of 368 

Services  of 369 

G.  M.,  and  Representative  to  G.  L.  U.  S 369 

Winds  up  affairs  of  old  G.  L.  of  Mass ,...386 

HONORS. 

Giving  the,  abolished -139 

HOPKINS,  HOWELL,  of  Pennsylvania. 

G.  Representative...  218,  222,  224,  226 

Protest  in  G.  L.  U.  S 218 

G.  L.  U.  S.  adjourns  for 221 

Presents  service  of  plate  for  G.  L.  U.  S.  to  Wilcley 226 

HOST. 

Rights  of  a 44,  210,  441 

Duties  of  a 389-390 

ILLINOIS. 

Grand  Lodge  of,  instituted  by  Wildey 288 

INITIATION. 

Derivation  of  the  word 254 

Theory  and  foim  of,  in  I.  O.  O.  F 497 

Exemplification   of,  in  I.  O.  O.   F 498 

In  Egyptian  rites 258 

In  Scandinavian  rites ;.26l 

In  Dionysian  (Grecian)  rites 262 


INDEX.  517 

PAGE. 

I N ITI ATIO  N  —  Continued. 

In  Persian  and  Gothic  rites 269 

By  Pythagoreans  ..270 

In  Ancient  Mysteries « 2*70 

In  Masonry.     See  Secret  Principle. 

JACKSON,  HENRY  M.,  of  England. 

Brings  Work  of  Manchester  Unity  to  Washington  Lodge 20,  21 

Wildey's  rival  as  founder  of  I.  O.  O.  F 22,  27 

Institutes  a  rival  Lodge  27 

Retires  from  the  field  - 29 

JERUSALEM  ENCAMPMENT  No.  1.,  of  Maryland. 

The  first  in  the  world  as  successor  to  Encampment  of  Patriarchs 135 

JOURNAL. 

Beginning  of,  and  how  obtained , 8—9 

KENNEDY,  JOHN  A.,  of  Maryland 

Early  history  of ,...411 

Ridgely  and ,, 412 

Initiated 412 

Services  in  Maryland 412,  413 

Removes  to  New  York „ 413 

Services  in 413 

G.  Representative  to  G.  L.  U.  S t 413 

Grand  Master  , 413 

Grand  Si r,e , 413 

Characteristics  of ,.. 413,  414 

Public  history  of 414,  415 

On  Committee  of  Revision  of  the  Work 415 

As  a  historian 415,  416 

Contributions  to  the  history.      Preface  VI 12,  389,  415,  416 

Singular  incidents  as  related  by 48,  55-56 

Corporator  of  Gnand  Lodge  of  Maryland 119 

Reports  in  favor  of  presentation  of  silver  cups  to  Ridgely  and  Keyser 137 

Revives  the  Order  in  New  York  , 410 

Death  of,  and  honors  to 416 

KENTUCKY. 

Boone  Lodge  No.  1  of,   chartered. 220 

Wildey's  visits  to 286-7 

LEISE,  FREDERICK,  of  New  York. 

G.  Representative  from  New  York,  afterwards  D.  G.  Sire 407 

LODGES. 

Duties  in,  described 162,  237 

Convivial  proceedings  in < 42,  55,  441,  442 

Visitors  to,  to  pay  a  fee 112 

Name  and  number  of 192 

Encampment „ , 303 

Spurious 165,  207,402 

Ancient,  in  England , 389,  390,  440 

Financial  system  of.  ....  190 

Meeting  places  of  early,  in  U.  S  19,  36,  37,  38,  39,  53,  54,  112,  339,  343, 

348,  390,  391,  392,  423,  426,  443,  444,  445,  446,  455,  456,  457,  458 

LOPEZ,  JOSEPH,  of  Massachusetts. 

Sketch  of,  and  services  of. 361 

LOUISIANA. 

Louisiana  Lodge  No.  1  of,  chartered , , 209 

Grand  Lodge  of,  chartered , 217 

Visit  and  Work  of  Wildey  in 286,  287 

Wildey  Encampment  No.  1  of,  chartered 217 

MANCHESTER  UNITY. 

Origin  of „ 195,  402 

Style  or  title  of .... 196,  197 


518  INDEX. 

PAGE. 

MANCHESTER  UNITY — Continued. 

Degrees  of 296,  298,  299,  302 

Conditions  for  obtaining 297 

Work  and  system  of. 20,  21 

Refreshments  allowed  by , 46 

Adopts  American  Degrees , < 298,  299 

Circular  letter  to 95 

Charters  Washington  Lodge  No.  1 23 

Charters  G.  L.  of  U.  S.  in  1826 184,  185 

Charters  Columbia  Lodge,  New  York 392 

Thanks  to,  by  G.  L.  U.  S 185 

Wildey  not  a' member  of , 18 

MARLF.Y,  RICHARD,  of  Maryland. 

Entered  Grand  Lodge  of  Mel... 112 

Earlylifeof 163 

Grand  Warden  and  Deputy  Grand  Master 163 

Expelled 164 

Returns  and  reforms 164,  165 

Grand  Master  and  Grand  Patriarch 166 

Grand  Representative  and  characteristics  as 166 

Rare  traits  of  character 169,  170 

Fifth  degree  members  and .164,  167,  168 

One  of  "  Three  Odd  Links'1 160 

Portrait  of 172 

Death  of,  and  splendid  funeral  of 171 

MARYLAND. 

'Baltimore  in,  in  1819 17 

Reform  of  Lodge  conviviality  in ,.. 43,  211 

Plan  of  Lodge  Room  in 45 

Disappointment  at  not  being  made  permanent  seat  of  G.  L.  U.  S 179 

Great  revival  of  the  Order  in 142-143 

First  I.  O.  O.  F.  Hall  in  U.  S.  dedicated  in ....  146,  147 

See  Banner,  Boyd,  Couth,  Crowder,  Entwine,    G.   L.   ot  Md.  and   of  the 
U.  S.,  Marley,  Mathiot,  Ridgely,  Welch,  Wildey  and  Vansant. 

MARYLAND,  GRAND  LODGE  OF. 

Plan  for  separate ,,., ., 87 

Separate  charter  to 32 

Elects  a  G.  Representative  to  G.  L.  U.  S 86 

Last  meeting;  before  being  separately  organized 98 

Separate  officers  elected  by 99 

First  meeting  of,   and  Wildey's  retirement  from  G.  M 108 

Separate  charter  of,  and  address  of  Wildey 109,110 

Presents  a  " breast-plate "  to  Wildey Ill 

Seals  ordered  by 115 

Qualification  for  N.  G.  adopted  by Ill 

Qualification  for  G.  M.  adopted  by 112 

Action  on  anniversaries 114 

Celebrations „ 117 

Property  and  funds  of 115 

Irregular  trial  by 116 

Political  action  of , 118 

Expunged 119 

Reflections  on,  and  tribute  to 119,  120 

Procures  first  banner  of  I.  O.  O.  F 120 

Adopts  "  Crozier  "  for  Patriarchal  degree 121 

Franklin  Lodge  No.  2,  instituted  by  Jackson.  ., 27 

Action  on,  by  Manchester  Unity 28,  29 

Chartered  by  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  U.  S 33,  65 

In  1823 47 

And  Washington  Lodge  No.  1 33 

Columbia  Lodge  No.  3,  Chartered 84 

Institution  and  grand  opening  of 40,  50 


INDEX.  519 

PAGE. 

MARYLAND,  GRAND  LODGE  OF — Continued. 

William  Tell  Lodge  No.  4,  Chartered 125-6 

Wildey  a  charter  member  of 126 

Mother  German  Lodge 126,  189 

Gratitude  Lodge  No.  5,  chartered 140 

Action  on  "  New  Signs  "  by 123,128 

Honorary  Membeiship  allowed  by  ....« ......124 

Fixes  order  and  price  of  degrees 127 

Purchases  lease  and  fixtures  of  Columbia  Lodge  .. .' 128,  129 

Charters  an  Encampment  Lodge .129 

Officers  of 130,  134 

Activity  and  work  of ....c...    132 

Retiring  G.  M.  to  be  G.  Representative  (Repealed) 131 

Finances  of,  and  statistics  of 131,  134,  135,  136,  139 

Charters  an  Encampment  of  Patriarchs ... 135 

Wildey  acting  Treasurer  of - 135 

Fifth  degree  members  in 164 

Procures  a  Charter  from  the  State 118,  137 

Presentation  by,  to  Kidgdy  and  Keyser 137,  138 

"  Giving  the  Honors"  abolished  by 139 

Proceeds  to  build  a  Hall  of  I.  O.  O.  F , 140,  141 

James  L.  Ridgely  as  G.  Sec.  of,  and  efforts  in  building  the  Hall 140,  142 

Cost  of  the  Hall 145 

Dedication  and  celebration  by 140,  147 

See  Washington  Lodge  No.  1  and  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  U.  S. 

MASONRY. 

No  Central  Government  in 99,  100 

I.  O.  O.  F   not  borrowed  from 4 

False  origin  attributed  to 253 

Traits  of  Ancient  Mysteries  in 265 

Traits  of  the  Pythagoreans  in 270 

Doctrines  and  rites  of 491,  492,493 

Nature  of  former  obligation  of  I.  O.  O.  F.  same  as 333 

Hostile  to  early  I.  O.  O.  F 43,  150, 151 

Tribute  to,  as  sister  Order 4 

William  Morgan  and  .,..  333 

Sketch  of  Anti-Masonic  party 333 

Persecution  of  I.  O.  O.  F.  by  Anti-Masonry 219,  220,  334,  376,  427 

Triumphant  in  the  contest - 334 

See  Secret  Principle  and  Odd  Fellowship. 

MASSACHUSETTS. 

Early  Odd  Fellows  in , 335 

James  B.  Barnes  founder  of  I.  O.  O.  F.  in 338 

Two  Lodges  instituted  in        ...  339 

Correspondence  with  Wildey  organization ... 70,  342i 

Wilson's  visit  to  Baltimore,  and  consequences  of. .40,  41 

Wildey's  mission  to , 72,  76,  343 

Hatson's  case  in 346,  347,  370 

Encampments  in. .363 

Wildey's  subsequent  visits  to 365,  366,  367,  368,  371,  378,  385 

Wildey's  correspondence  with 377-381 

First  1.  O.  O.  F.  procession  in 373,  374 

Report  of  Movable  Committee  on. 382 

Revival  in,  and  striking  incident  of 385 

Reflections  on  I.  O.  O.  F.  in,  in  the  decade 386-388 

See  Ashworth,  Barr,  Barnes,  Eaton,  Ellison,  Ford,  Guild,  Hersey,  Lopez, 
Norris,  Paul,  Porter,  South  wick  and  Yates. 

MASSACHUSETTS  LODGE  No.  1. 

Instituted , 339 

Wilson  of,  visits  Baltimore 342 

Letter  from,  to  Washington  Lodge  No.  1 70 

Charter  voted  to 71,  343 


520  INDEX. 

1'AGK. 

MASSACHUSETTS  LODGE  No.  1 — Continued. 

Organized  by  Wildey , 330 

Finances  of 339,  349 

Charter  of 344 

Institutes  Siloam  Lodge  No.  2 330,  340 

Has  a  difficulty  with  Siloam  Lodge  No.  2 347 

Places  of  meeting 348 

In  1825-6-7-8-9 ;-;4<>,  381 

Price  for  initiation  in 349 

Meetings  for  conferring  degrees 349 

Final  proceedings  of,  and  surrender  of  charter 349,  350 

Revival  of,  in  1841 385 

Present  condition  of 350,  363 

MASSACHUSETTS,  GRAND  LODGE  OF. 

Chartered .71,  72,  365 

Charter  of 366 

Recalled  and  reissued. ...367 

First  organization  of,  by  Wildey 345,  365,  366,  367 

First  members  of 345 

Officers  of 378,  381,  382 

Strong  Box  for    371 

General  laws  of. 371 

Good  effect  of 372 

Property  of 383-386 

Revived  and  reorganized 385 

Reflections  on  original  failure  of .386-388 

Siloam   Lodge  No.   2,    instituted • 339 

Early  members  of 351 

Temperance  resolution  of 351 

At  Wildey's  visit 345 

Conflict  with  Massachusetts  Lodge  No.  1... 347 

Collation  by 351 

Finances  of 351 

Public  installation  by 352 

Independence  of 352 

Charter,  and  surrender  of. 353,  354 

Tribute  to,  by  P.  G.  S.  Ellison 353 

In  1828  and  1829 381 

Present  condition  of.. 363,  364 

Good   Samaritan    Lodge   No.  3,    chartered  373 

Flourishes  in  1829 359 

Decadence  of,  in  1833 359 

New    England  Lodge  No.  4,    publicly  instituted 373,  374 

First  procession  of  I.  O.O.F.  by,  in  N.  E. 373,  374 

Sketch  of,  and  dissolution  of 361 

Present  condition  of.- 364 

Washington    Lodge   No.    5,   instituted 374 

Its  membership,  and  Wildey's  notice  of.    ..    362 

Its  extinction 362 

Adam  Lodge  No.  6,  Formal  opening  of , 374 

Sketch  of,  and  dissolution  of 362,  365 

Merrimac   Lodge    No.    7,    chartered 375 

Formal  opening  of 375 

Wildey's  eulogy  of 375,  37& 

Noble  efforts,  and  restoiation  or 376,  377 

Present  condition  of 364 

MATHIOT,  AUGUSTUS,  of  Maryland. 

The  young  American  uf  first  decade 149 

Parentage  and  early  history  of 149- 

No.  177  in  Washington  Lodge  No.  1  149- 

Characteristics  of 150,  151 

Rejected  by  Masonry  as  an  I.  O.  O.  F 150,  151 


INDEX.  521 

PAGE. 

MATHIOT,  AUGUSTUS,  OF  MARYLAND  —  Continued. 

Author  of  Temperance  Reform , 151,  152 

Fennell's  tribute  to 153 

Refuses  to  become  G.  M.  by  death  of  G.  Master .,..155 

Deputy  G.  Master  and  G.  Master 155 

G.  Secretary  of  G.  L.  U.  S Io5,  156 

G.  Treasurer  and  G.  Representative  to  G.  L.  U.  S 156 

Second  G.  Patriarch...., 157 

His  eminence  and  popularity 157 

His  prosperity  and  liberality 158 

His  green  old  age 159 

His  death  and  "The  Three  Odd  Links." 159,  160 

MATTHEWS,   WILLIAM  H.,  of  Pennsylvania. 

Sketch  of 46T 

N.  G.  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge  No.  1,  in  1823 46T 

First  elected  G.  Secretary  in  Pennsylvania  467 

McCABE,  REV.  JAMES  D.,  of  Virginia. 

Author  of  present  Patriarchal  Degree 327 

McCoRMicK,  DUNCAN,  of  Maryland. 

Brings  Patriarchal  Degree  from  England 180 

McKELVEY,  WILLIAM  P.,  of  West  Virginia. 

Contribution  to  the  history 337 

McMAHAN,  THOMAS  P.,  of  Pennsylvania. 

Conflict  with  G.  L.  of  Pennsylvania 435,436 

Address  at  dedication  of  Hall 474 

MEDOLE,  JOHN,  of  New  York. 

His  contribution  to  the  history,  Preface  VII 416 

MEMBERS. 

Honorary , 113,  124,  125 

By  certificate    133 

How  to  apply  to  become,  after  rejection 138 

Difficulty  about  "respectability"  of 210 

Reinstatement  of  suspended  for  N.  P.  Dues 125 

Composed  originally  of  Mechanics  .... .161 

MISSISSIPPI,  GRAND  LODGE  OF. 

"Wildey  institutes  ,.- 287 

MISSOURI,  GRAND  LODGE  OF. 

Wildey  institutes 287 

MOORE,  WILLIAM  W.,  P.  G.  Sire,  of  the  District  of  Columbia. 

His  contribution  to  the  history 321-327 

Author  of  present  Royal  Blue  Degree 322 

Royal  Purple  Degree 325-326 

Ridgely  and,  authors  of  present  Initiatory 324 

MYSTERIES,  ANCIENT. 

Egyptian 255,  256 

Osiris,  Serapis  and  Isis 256 

Theory  of  rites  of. „ 257 

Initiation  and  degrees  of 258,  259 

Chinese,  philosophy  of. ..259,  260 

Japanese,  philosophy  of 260 

Druidical,  philosophy  of.. .260 

Temples  of.  260,  261 

Scandinavian   philosophy  of .. — 261 

Initiation „  261 

English  jury  from  261 

May  Day,  Christmas  and  St.  John's  Day  from 262 

Grecian,  Eleusinian  Legend,  and  object  of. 254,  255,  262 

Dionysian  Legend  and  initiation 262,  263 

Spiritual  meaning  of 263 

Pythagorean,  founded  on  numbers  and  geometry 267,  268,  269 


522  INDEX. 

PAGK. 

MYSTERIES,  Ancient —  Continued. 

Pythagoreans,  as  communists 2*70 

Secret  work  and  degrees  of 270 

Hebrew,  regard  for  numbers 2G8-9 

See  Secret  Principle. 
NAME 

And  Initials  of  the  Order „ 3,  194-8 

NEW  JERSEY. 

Introduction  of  the  Order  into 429 

New  Jersey  Lodge  No.  1  of,  chartered  and  sketch  of 199,  430 

Benevolent  Lodge  No  2  of,  chartered  and  instituted 199,  431 

Previous  history  of. 430 

Grand  Lodge  of,  opened  by  Wildey 287 

See  Pearce. 

NEW  YORK. 

Ancient  Odd  Fellowship  in , 389-90,  403 

Chambers  family  in 390 

Morris  and  Flanagan 391 

Condition  of,  in  1833 208,405 

Albany  movement 406-7 

G.  L.  of  U.  S.,  on 407-8 

Order  reestablished  in 409 

Reflections  on  history  of  Order  in,  and  new  birth 410-11 

Shakspeare  Lodge  No.  1  of,  self-instituted  and  dissolved 390-1 

Franklin  Lodge  the  rival  of  Columbia  Lodge  No.  2 392-3 

Merged  in  Columbia  Lodge  No.  2  396 

Washington  Lodge  of,  self-instituted  and  closes 391 

Columbia  Lodge  No.  4  of,  self-instituted 391 

English  charter  granted  to 392 

Contention  with  Franklin  Lodge 393 

Wildey's  decision  and  the  result  to 394 

Correspondence  with  Baltimore  by 73-4 

Chartered  by  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  U.  S 78 

Grand  Lodge  of,  chartered 75 

Instituted  by  Wildey .  ..  76,  398 

Charter  of , 397 

Had  but  one  subordinate 399 

Contest  with  Friendship  Lodge  No.  a 399-401 

Contest  with  Strangers'  Refuge  Lodge  No.  4 401-2 

Character  of  Pa>t  Grands  of 405 

Representatives  in  the  G.  L.  U.  S 405 

Condition  of 208,  405 

Removed  to  Albany - 406-7 

Grand  Masters  of 406 

Last  recorded  meeting  of 404 

Case  of,  inG.  L.  U.  S 407-8 

Grand  revival  of  the 408-10 

Reflections  upon  and  tribute  to 410-11 

See  Downing,   Encampment   Branch,    Kennedy,  Leise,  Robinson,  Small 
and   Watts. 

Friendship  Lodge  No.  2  of,  instituted  and  sketch  of 399 

Able  attack  on  American  system  by 399—101 

Answer  to 401 

Hope  Lodge  No.  3  of,  instituted 401 

Fine  membeiship  of 407 

Strangers'  Refuge  Lodge  No.  4  of,  instituted 401 

Mutinies,  and  is  expelled K>3,  401-2 

Character  of  members  of 402-3 

Institutes  a  Lod^e  in  New  Jersey 402 

Reinstated  by  Grand  Lodge   404 

Singular  history  of. -      404 

Philanthropic  Lodge  No.  5  of,  instituted 403 


INDEX.  523 

PAGE. 

NICHOLS,  AARON,  of  Pennsylvania. 

Sketch  of,  and  monument  to 463 

First  Grand  Master  of  Pennsylvania 463 

NORRIS,  THOMAS  F.,  of  Massachusetts. 

Initiated 351 

Services  of,  and  Grand  Master 360 

OBLIGATION. 

At  first  Masonic 333 

Changed  to  "  Parole  of  Honor  " 334 

ODD  FELLOWSHIP. 

Name  of 3,  195 

American,  true  origin  of. 7,  199 

Statistics  of,  in  1878 • 16 

Incidents  in  beginning  of. 18,  19 

Founder  of ,.. 19 

Twelve  fundamental  observations  on 234-6 

First  movers  in 7,  335 

And  the  Church 144,  214,  215 

And  Masonry 3,  4,  43,  150,  151 

Literary  character  of.... 187,  216 

Epoch  of  June  1823 ,..,424,  469 

Foundation  of  degrees  of., 493 

Ancient,  false  origin  attributed  to 10,253 

True  origin  of ...    389 

System  of. 403 

System  of,  ably  defended ..399-401 

Relief  by 390,  395 

Character  of  members  of 335,  405 

See   Anniversary,  Benefits,  Cards,  Certificates,  Hall,  Harmony,  Honors, 
Host,  Members,  Manchester  Unity,  Masonry,  Name,  Obligation,  Odes, 
One  Man  Power,  Past  Grands,  Politics,  Ritual,  Traditions,  Tramps, 
Warden's  Axe. 
ODES. 

Not  sung,  but  recited 78 

Installation,  to  be  read.....  85 

OHIO. 

Ohio  Lodge  No.  1  of,  chartered ., - 208 

Grand  Lodge  of,  chartered 216 

On  style  of  Order 197 

Triumphal  visit  with  Wildey 287 

Wildey  Encampment  No.  1  of,  chartered..... 218 

ONE  MAN  POWER. 

Reflections  on 209 

PASSWORD. 

Annual  Traveling,  adopted    89,  332 

To  be  given  to  G.  M.  and  D.  G.  M.  of  each  State 191 

History  of.. „ 332 

PAST  GRANDS. 

Committee  of 29 

Rights  of. 135,  178 

PATRIARCHS. 

Uniformed 313-15 

PAUL,  WILLIAM,  of  Massachusetts. 

On  Anti-Masonry  in  Massachusetts   , 334,  376 

PEARCE,  JOHN,  of  Pennsylvania. 

History  and  character  of 426 

As  an  Odd  Fellow 427 

N.  G.  of  Pennsylvania  Lodge  No.  1 428 

D.  G.  Master  and  G.  Representative  to  G.  L.  U.  S 428 

First  G.  Master  and  G.  Representative  of  New  Jersey  431 

Death  of .429 


524  INDEX 


J.  -rt.ljr.Ci, 

PENNSYLVANIA. 

Compliment  to , 221 

Translates  Work  into  German 446 

Anniversary  in 473_4 

Hall  on  South  Fifth  Street  474-476 

Building  and  dedication  of 477 

Reflections  and  eulogy  on  477-9 

Pennsylvania  Lodge  No.  1  of,  visited  by  Wildey 72 

Chartered  and  instituted ...75,  70,  424 

Defection  of 206,  207,  434-437 

Founded  by  John  L>.  Robinson 423 

First  initiate  of 423 

Charter  of,  vacated 436 

Wildey  sustains 436 

Present  condition  of 437-8 

Reflections  on,  and  tiibute  to 437-8 

See  Bartle,  Baffin,  Day,  Encampment  Branch,  Hopkins,  Matthews, 
McMahan,  Nichols,  Pearce,  Potts,  Pryor,  Robinson,  Small,  Stokes 
and  Upton. 

Grand  Lodge  of,  chartered  and  instituted 459,  460 

First  Grand  Secretary  of 460-2 

First  Grand  Master  of. 463 

Officers  of.... 4u4,  465,  468 

Constitution  of,  adopted 464 

Correspondence  with  G,  L.  U.  S 470 

Reports  to  G.  L.  U.  S 470,  472,  473 

Washington  Lodge  No.  2  of,  chartered 433,  438 

Noble  conduct  of 438 

Recruits  and  aids  Numbers  3,  8,  y,  ]3,  22,  23. ..438 

Condition  of,  in  1862  and  1874 439 

Interesting  meetings  and  minutes 441-2 

Disapproved  of  Bar  (1827) 466-7 

Wayne  Lodge  No.  3  of,  history  and  present  condition 443 

Morning  Star  Lodge  No.  4  of,  instituted 443 

Pioneer  in  building  I.  O.  O.  F.  Hall 444 

Present  condition  of 444-5 

Franklin  Lodge  No.  5  of,  chartered,  and  its  present  condition  445 

General  Marion  Lodge  No.  6  of,  organization  and  its  present  condition 445 

Hermann  Lodge  No.  7  of,  instituted,  audits  present  condition 446 

Rising  Sun  Lodge  No.  8  of,  instituted .... 446 

Members  of  and  its  present  condition 447 

Mechanics  Lodge  No.  9  of,  first  Lodge  instituted  west  of  the  Alleghanies...447 

D.  G.  M.  appointed  for,  and  duties  of 447 

Hall  and  property  burned 447,  449 

Noble  contributions  to 448,  449 

Refuses  to  obey  the  D.  D.  G.  M 449-50 

Charter  of  forfeited  and  returned 450 

Interesting  proceedings  on  return  of. .450-1 

Surrendered  in  1860 452 

Restored  and  prosperous 452 

Philomathean  Lodge  No.  10  of,  instituted 452 

First  Lodge  to  pay  for  I.  O.  O.  F.  Hall 452 

Present  condition 452 

Kensington  Lodge  No.  11  of,  institution,  career,  and  present  condition 453 

Jefferson  Lodge  No.  12  of,  institution,  career,  and  present  condition 453 

Philadelphia  Lodge  No.  13  of,  chartered 453 

Interesting  career  of, 454 

No.  16  unites  with 456 

Wildey  Lodge  No.  14  of,  instituted , 454 

First  of  the  name  in  the  United  States  454 

Career  and  present  condition .454 

Philanthropic  Lodge  No.  15  of,  chartered 455 

Career  and  present  condition 455 


INDEX.  525 


PEN  N  SYLVAN  i  A  —  Continued. 

Harmony  Lodge  No.  16  of,  instituted,  career,  and  present  condition 456 

Northern  Liberty  Lodge  No.  17  of,  chartered,  and  present  condition. ..456,  457 

La  Fayette  Lodge  No.  18  of,  instituted,  and  present  condition 457 

Amity  Lodge  No.  19  of,  chartered,  career,and  present  condition 458 

Miners  Lodge  No.  20  of,  chartered,  and  present  condition 458 

POLITICS  IN  GRAND  LODGE  OF  MARYLAND. 

Resolutions  adopted  and  expunged 118,  119 

Reflections  upon  the  noble  act 120 

PORTER,  NATHAN,  of  California. 

Author  of  Sign  of  Recognition 331 

PORTER,  THOMAS  C.,  of  Massachusetts. 

Contribution  to  the  History 364 

On  Grand  Charter  of  Massachusetts 367 

POTTS,  JOHN  G.,  of  Pennsylvania. 

Grand  Master  and  Grand  Treasurer  of  Pennsylvania,  and  later  history  of.. .468 
PRYOR,  SAMUEL,  of  Pennsylvania. 

Sketch  of , 465 

First  native  Grand  Master  of  Pennsylvania , - 466 

Grand  Secretary  of  G.  L.  U.  S.... .. ..466 

RHODE  ISLAND. 

Odd  Fellowship  in,  before  1820 342 

James  Wood,  lather  of. 356 

See  Wood. 

Friendly  Union  Lodge  No.  1  of,  chartered 202 

Correspondence  with  and  institution  of 355-6 

RIDGELY,  JAMES  L.,  of  Maryland. 

Enters  the  Order  and  early  career  in 140 

Identifies  himself  with  the  Order 141 

Incorporates  Grand  Lodge  ofMd 137 

Presentation  to 137-8 

Secures  first  Hall  in  the  U.  S 142 

Wildey  and 211,  212 

Author  of  funeral  ceremonies 221 

Description  by,  ofWildey's  Farewell  and  Death 284,  293 

Author  of  P.  G.'s  charge 320,  324 

RITUAL,  OR  LECTURES. 

Brought  to  United  States , 20 

Meaning  of  "  Lecture  " '. 315 

First  book  of,  by  Manchester  Unity 316 

In  United  States,  English  and  German 316,  317 

Maryland  furnishes  books  of 317 

G.  L.  U.  S.  assumes  control  of 317 

Revision  of  in  1835,  1845,  1873 318,  319,  320 

G.  Secretary  Ridgely  author  of  P.  G.'s  charge.... - 320 

P.  G.  Sire  Moore's  incidents  of  revision  of  1845 321-327 

See  Degrees. 

ROBINSON,  JOHN  B.,  of  New  York. 

Founder  of  I.  O.  O.  F.  in  Pennsylvania 406,  423,  433 

Ross,  THEODORE  A.,  of  New  Jersey. 

Connection  with  the  work.     Preface  VII. 

SECRETARY. 

Permanent  recommended - 114 

See  Grand  Secretary. 

SECRET  JOURNAL. 

Text  and  Diagrams 329,  330 

SECRET  PRINCIPLE. 

Philosophy  of  the  ...< 251 

How  anciently  imparted • 270 


526  INDEX. 

PAGE. 

SECRET  PRINCIPLE — Continued. 

Derived  from  mystery ,. 251-2 

Not  ascribed  to  I.  O.  O.  F 265-6 

Of  I.  O.  O.  F.  original  .... 264-5 

Of  Masonry „ ,...265 

Ancient  Mysteries , 252-3 

Antiquity  of 253-4 

And  the  number  SEVEN 269 

Name  of  Deity  in .....268 

Doctrines  and  rites  of. .254 

Influence  of  on  the  Moderns 264 

In  modern  forms  266 

Degenerates  into  mythology 271-2-3 

Ancient  Mystics 273 

Oracles  cease  in,  and  reason  triumphs 273-4 

See  Catholic,  Initiation,  Mystery. 

SIGNS. 

Old  and  new 89,  328 

New  repudiated ....  123 

Action  on 128 

New  and  old  to  be  imparted 191,  213 

New  adopted 192 

HAILING,  and  author  of 331 

RECOGNITION,  and  author  of 331 

SMALL,  THOMAS,  of  Pennsylvania. 

Sketch  of .. 464 

Career  as  G.  Secretary 465 

G.  Representative  in  G.  L.  U.  S 181 

Member  of  Movable  Committee  and  report. - 207-8,  382 

Death  of ..465 

SMALL,  WILSON,  of  New  York. 

Early  history  of 416 

History  of,  in  the  Order 419 

G.  Representative  and  G.  Master 419 

Successful  administration  of 420 

Later  history  and  characteristics  of 421-2 

SOUTHWICK,  SIMEON,  of  Massachusetts. 

Notice  of o 360 

STOKES,  JOHN  W.,  of  Pennsylvania. 

Contributes  to  the  History.     Preface  VI.  VII. 

On  Uniformed  Patriarchs 313 

STUART,  FRED.  D.,  P.  G.  Sire,  of  the  District  of  Columbia. 
Author  of  device  for  History.     Preface  VII. 
Supervised  Diagrams  in  Secret  Journal 330 

SUNDAY. 

Degrees  not  to  be  conferred  on 116 

TEXAS. 

First  Lodge  opened  in  foreign  land,  by  Wildey 287 

TRADITIONS. 

For  the  History,  who  obtained  from  12 

TRAMPS. 

Relief  to 189,  390 

UPTON,  JOHN,  of  Pennsylvania. 

Early  history  of 425 

House  of,  in  Dock  Street,  Philadelphia 426 

Pennsylvania  Lodge  No.  1,  instituted  at  423-4 

VANSANT,  JOSHUA,  of  Maryland. 

Sketch  of 50,  51 


INDEX.  527 


VIRGINIA. 

Virginia  Lodge  No.  1  of,  chartered 224 

Washington  Lodge  No.  2  of,  chartered 227 

Grand  Lodge  of,  instituted 287 

WARDEN'S  AXE. 

Dues  collected  on 190,  394 

WASHINGTON  LODGK  No.  1  (Maryland). 

When  and  how  instituted 18,  19 

Wildey  first  N.  G.  of 19 

Obtains  the  English  work 20 

Celebrated  English  Charter  to   23 

Finances  the  first  year 25 

Benefit  system  adopted  by  26 

Franklin  Lodge  to  supersede 27 

Meeting  places  of. 19,  21,  34,  36,  37,  38,  39,  143 

Chartered  by  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  U.  S 35 

Condition  of  in  1822 40 

Visit  from  a  Massachusetts  brother  to 40 

Convivial  Meeting  of,  in  1821 55 

First  secret  work  and  ritual  of. 298 

Founders  of 104 

Mother  Lodge 32-3 

Its  present  condition 56 

See  Box  Strong,  Boyd,  Conviviality,  Crowder,  Entwisle,  Jackson,  Mathiot, 
McCormick,  Welch,  Wildey,  Yates. 

WATTS,  RUSSELL,  of  New  York. 

N.  G.  of  Columbia  Lodge,  N.  Y 392 

Applies  forCharter  for  the  Lodge 73 

Grand  Master  of  New  York 406-7 

WELCH,  JOHN,  of  Maryland. 

Association  with  Wildey ~ IT 

First  V.  G.  of  Washington  Lodge  No.  I 19,  103 

First  G.  Secretary  of  G.  L.  of  Md.  and  U.  S 32,  104 

First  D.  Grand  Master  and  D.  G.  Sire 104 

Before  April  1819 102 

Third  in  "  The  Great  Trio  "  101 

The  Nestor  of  the  enterprise 103,  106-7 

Survey  of  his  character  and  services 104-5 

Characteristics — 105-6 

Analysis  of  work  of,  with  the  Trio. 106-7 

G.  Secretary  Ridgely  and 106 

Retires 203 

Death  of 106 

WHITALL,  CHARLES,  of  Louisiana. 

Author  of  Hailing  Sign 331 

WILDEY,  THOMAS. 

Before  1819 17,  276,  277,  278 

Welch  and „ 17,  18 

Washington  Lodge  No.  1,  self-instituted,  Wildey's  narrative  of. 19,  278-9 

First  N.  G 19 

Jackson  the  rival  of 22,  27 

Grand  Master  ofG.  L.  of  Md.  and  of  the  U.  S .  32,  65 

His  mission  in  1823 72-76 

Founder  of  I.  O.  O.  F.  and  anxiety  to  be  so  known 280 

Analysis  of  character  of « 280-2 

In  old  age 289-92 

Retires  as  Grand  Master  of  Md , 98,  108 

Founds  Encampments 129,  310 

First  Grand  Patriarch 216 

As  Treasurer  136,  230-1 

Member  of  first  German  Lodge 126,  189 


528  INDEX. 


\VILDEY,  THOMAS — Continue^. 

Ridgely  and 211 

First  Grand  Sire  and  installation 176 

Mission  to  England „ 182-3,  188 

Reasons  for  and  proceedings  upon 184 

Carries  American  Degrees  to  England , 187 

Movable  Committee  and  2u7,  208 

Re-elected  Grand  Sire  219 

Slander  of 219-20,  283 

Breast-plate  presented  to ,, Ill 

Thanks  voted  to 71,  76,  190,  192,  201,  224 

Service  of  plate  presented  to 226 

Medals,  jewels,  &c 99,  226 

Gives  place  to  new  men 209,223 

Condition  of  Order  on  retirement  of. 233,  283 

Farewell  address  of 227 

Affecting  notice  of,  by  Ridgely 284 

Eulogy  on  official  career  of 229 

As  Travelling  Missionary i 285 

Closing  labors  of. ...288 

Grand  retrospect  of  life  of , 292 

Last  appearance  of 293 

Death  and  prophetic  words  of. v 293-5 

Addresses  of 51,  67,  98 

WILLIAMSON,  REV.  ISAAC  D.,  of  Maryland. 

Author  of  present  G.  Rule  degree 327 

\VooD,  JAMES,  of  Massachusetts  and  Rhode  Island. 

Early  history  of ~ 3-55 

Father  of  Rhode  Island  Odd-Fellowship 356-7 

Correspondence  of 355-9 

First  Grand  Master  and  Grand  Patriarch  of  Rhode  Island 356 

G.  Representative  from  Rhode  Island. 357 

YATES,  JOHN,  of  Maryland. 

His  mission  to  England 24 


14  DAY  USE 

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